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EECOLLECTIONS
â–²HI)
PRIVATE MEMOIRS
0»
W A SHINGTON,
BT HIS ADOPTED SON,
GEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE (jIUSTIS, '
WITH
A MEMOIR OF THE AUTHOR,
BT HIS daughter;
AlfD
ILLUSTRATTVE AND EXPLANATORY NOTES.
BY
BENSON J. LOSSING.
"Fmr nr Was, Fnar xh Pkaos, hsd Fust nr ths Hxasts or sn Couhtbtxbk.*'
G<n. Henry Lti» Oration,
WITH ILLUSTRATIONS.
NEW YORK: PUBLISHED BY DERBY & JACKSON.
1860.
t'^:
r-
.V-
(^.
\^^
ytU^
Entered, according to Act of CJongresf, in the jear 1859,
Bt Mrs. Mjlrt Custib Lbb«
in the Clerk's 0£Bice of the District Conrt of the United States, for the Eastern
District of Yii^ginia.
8ATA0B a H«CRBA, 8TBRBOTTPBK8, IS ChMibwt Street, H. T.
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS.
The men and women who were cotemporary with Washington have nearly all passed away, and in a few years every tongue that might now speak of personal recollections of the Father of his Country will be silent, and that for ever.
As we recede from the age of Washington, and history takes the place of verbal traditions in giving a narrative of the events of those days, we become more and more anxious to gamer, in memory and in books, the precious seeds of information concern- ing the men whose names stand prominently on the records of those events. Especially do we desire to know all about Wash- ington, the great central figure of the group of patriots whom we have been taught to revere as the founders of the republic.
We feel confident, therefore, that a work like this, containing the minute details of much of Washington's private life, as well as his public career (which general history does not reveal), and related, too, by a member of Washington's own family — one who lived with him from infancy until his nineteenth year — will be peculiarly acceptable to the American public.
In this work, new phases of Washington's character are dis- played. We see him as a private citizen — as a plain farmer — as the head of a family.
The correspondence between Washington and his adopted son, while the latter was in college, first at Princeton and after- ward at Annapolis (never before published), will be found deeply interesting, especially to our young men. Washington's letters display the fatherly anxiety and solicitude with which he saw the child of his adoption, sometimes giving promises of great improvement and future usefulness, and at others pursuing a dis- appointing course, and awakening painful doubts concerning the
203485
4 INTRODUOTOBT REMARKS.
character of his manhood. These called from Washington words of great wisdom ; and the advice contained in his letters to young Gustis we would commend to the careful considera- tion of every young man starting out in life.
The general arrangement of the whole work, and the elabo- rate explanatory and illustrative notes to the Recollections , by the editor, whose familiarity with the subject is well known, so connect and generalize the desultory sketches of the author as to make the work an interesting Life op Washington. In these notes will be found much rare matter never before presented in a collected form.
The correspondence between Washington and the father of the author of these Recollections y during the Eevolution (printed in the Appendix, and now for the first time made public), will be found especially interesting. Their letters treat chiefly of private affairs, and give us a vivid picture of Washington's sagacious views in relation to the management of property. They also show the wonderful capacity and adaptation of his mind in giving close and lucid attention to private concerns, while engaged in the most arduous and momentous public duties. Two of Mr. Custis's orations ; the famous oration of General Henry Lee on the death of Washington ; an interest- ing account of the presentation of a ring to Lafayette by Custis at the tomb of Washington ; a specimen of Washington's care and exactness in the management of his agricultural affairs ; and a notice of all the original portraits of Washington, are also printed in the Appendix.
The memoir of Mr. Custis, by his daughter, which properly forms a part of the work, will be found highly interesting, the subject being enriched by the introduction of very curious mat- ter pertaining to the earlier history of the family.
With these few observations, we submit the work to the pub- lic, feeling a pride in offering one so intrinsically valuable to every student of our history and lover of his country.
The Pubushebs.
New Yoek, August, 1859.
CONTENTS.
HsxoiB or Gborov Wabhikotok Parks Cubtis pjlob 9
OmxOIKAX, COKUBBPONDEKOB BBTWBBN WaBHIKOTON AND CuBTIB 73
RECOLLECTIONS OP WASfflNGTON.
Editor's Prbvacb 119
Avtbor's F&bfaob 121
CHAPTER I. X Thb Mothbr or WASHiiiOTOir 195
CHAPTER n. Washiboton at Moukt Ybrbon 151
CHAPTER III. Battls or Prxkobtov axd Dbath of General Mbbcbr 179
CHAPTER IV. Battlb or GBRXAarTowH 193
CHAPTER V. Thb BA.TTLB or Mohmouth Sll
CHAPTER VI. Tbb Surrbrpbr at Yorktowh 229
CHAPTER VII.
WABHIBOTDB'ff LlFB-GCARD 256
CHAPTER Vm. Thb Hubtibo-Sjubt 264
CHAPTER IX.
Washibotob'b Hba]>qiiartbrb 273
CHAPTER X. Mtstbbibs or thb Rbtolutiok 289
CHAPTER XI. Thb Ibdzab Pbophbgt 300
CHAPTER XII. Davibl Morgan 308
CHAPTER XIII. Bobbbt Mobbib 323
CHAPTER XIV. Tbohas Kblson 333
CHAPTER XV. Albxabdbb Hajcilton 340
CHAPTER XVL HbbbtLbb 354
H
6 CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XVn.
BiBTH-NIOHT BaLL8>ND THE ThBATRB PAOB 864
CHAPTER XVin. -^ Life jlt Moukt Vernon 370
CHAPTER XDC. Washington as a Sportsman 8B4
CHAPTER XX. The First Year of the Presidency 393
CHAPTER XXL Washington's Home and Household 406
CHAPTER XXIL The Retired President 433
CHAPTER xxnr.
Outline Life-Pictures 461
CHAPTER XXIV. Last Hours of Washington 472
CHAPTER XXV. Personal Appearance of Washington 480
CHAPTER XXVI. Martha Washington 495
CHAPTER XXVIL
Portraits of Washington 516
APPENDIX. I. Original Correspondence between General Washington and
John Parke Custis 533
n. Oration at the Funeral Solemnities to General James M.
LiNGAN, BY Q. W. P. Custis 571
m. Address at the Celebration of the Russian Victories oyer
Napoleon, by Q. W. P. Custis 585
rV. Presentation of a Ring to General Lafayette, by G. W. P.
Custis, at the Tomb of Washington 591
V. Directions for the Management of his Farms, by General
Washington 595
VI. Oration on the Death of Washington, delitered before Con- gress, BY General Henry Lee 615
Vn. Original Portraits of Washington 624
ILLUSTRATIONS.
George Washington Parke Custis Frontispiece
Colonel George Washington Opposite page 21
Mrs. Eleanor Parke Lewis (Nelly Custis) " " 45
Mrs. Martha Washington (Mrs. Custis) " " 495
Facsimile of Washington's Account with Miss Custis. . " " 496 Facsimile of Washington's Record of Survey " " 445
MEMOIR
OP
aEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE CUSTIS,
BT HIS DAUGHTES:
THE EPISTOLABT CORBESPONDEN CE
WASHINGTON AND CUSTIS.
MEMOIR
OF
GEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE CUSTIS.
It is with much diffidence that I offer to the public the BeeoUeeiians of my father^ in their present unfinished state. They were written by him at intervals of many months, sometimes of a year, during a period of thirty years, and were nearly all first published in the National MelHffencer^ printed at Washington city, in the District of Columbia. They have been extensively copied by the pr^ss throughout the Union, and sometime^ qudted by historians, but fi-om the perishable character df the vehicle by which they were conveyed to the pub- lic, it is to be doubted whether a perfect copy of the series is preserved, except the one contained in this volume.
For many years my father, influenced by the urgent solicitations of friends in all parts of the Union, enter- tained a design to arrange and revise his RecoUecUomy supply omissions, and have them published in Ihe more
10 MEMOIR OF
durable form of a volume, as a legacy to his countiymen. But this design was never carried out; and now, actu- ated by filial afiection, and a feeling that these recollec- tions of the Father of his Country, by his adopted son, should not be lost — that leaves so precious should not be scattered to the winds — I have undertaken to per- form what he left undone.
It seemed to me that a brief memoir of the author of the jReeoUectionSy and some notices of his family, connected as they have been with stirring scenes in the histoiy of the past, would be acceptable to the public.
The following letter, also, written by an old and esteemed fiiend, so well expresses the feelings of all who knew my father, and desired the publication of his RecoUeduma in permanent form, that I have taken the liberty of inserting it here : —
^ Washington, October 6, 1858.
^ My D£AR Madam : Many causes, unnecessary to men- tion, have prevented the fulfilment of my cherished pur- pose to express the pleasure with which I learned yoiur intention of preparing the writings of your venerable father for the press, to be preceded by a notice of his life fix>m the best pen, that of his only child. An intimate and imclouded friendship of more than thirty years with your beloved and lamented parents, gave me advantages for discerning and appreciating those rare and bright virtues which have made Arlington a place of frequent resort to many of the eminent and good of this and other countries.
^Your father was distinguished by talents which would have made him eminent in any profession to which he might have devoted himself; but his ample
OBOBGE WASHmOTOK PARKE CUSTIS. 11
fortune^ extensive and generous hospitality, and the care of large estates, led him rather to agricultural piuv suits, general literature, and the indulgence of his taste for the fine arts, than to a profound study of science or philosophy.
^ He read much, his memory was quick and retentive, dnd his knowledge of history and the public afiairs of the world was remarkably full and accurate. To the history of his own country he had devoted much time and special attention, and was more familiar with the character of the men and events of the Revolution, than any one I have known.
^Probably no one of his cotemporaries so well under- stood, or so profoimdly admired the retired and less obvious excellences, and the great public virtues and acts of Washington. The glory of that great man ever encompassed him, and inspired him with enthusiasm and eloquence. In his childhood he learned from Washing- ton lessons of patriotism which were never forgotten. Hence, in important political questions he was deeply interested, and amid all the sectional controversies of his day he stood firm to the Union.
" He was warm and constant in friendship, had a high sense of what is due (in conversation) to absent acquaint- ances, and was ever reluctant to attend to remarks dis- paraguag or injmious to others. He sympathized quickly with distress, and the poor found in him a ready and liberal benefactor.
" Nothing could exceed the easy grace and politeness of his mannersfhis uniform and benevolent cheerfulness, and the delightful eloquence of his conversation. There was the blending of good humor, cordiality, interest in
12 MEMOIR OF
those whom he addreascd, with the riches of a brilliant poetic imagination^ throwing light and joy upon all aroimd. Those who visited Arlington immediately found themselves at home. Every want was anticipated by kind attentions, and nothing was omitted which could contribute to their happiness ; they seemed to realize the return of the days when Washington himself welcomed his guests at Mount Yemen and presided at the feast
" The writings you, Madam, are about to publish, will be welcomed by the people of the United States as historical papers of great value ; and those containing recollections of Washington, as precious memorials of the liffe and habits of the Father of his Country in retire- ment, wann with the love and gratitude of his devoted son, and glowing with his genius. The discourses of your father on the death of General Lingan, and that on the overthrow of Napoleon, were greatly admired at the time they were spoken, and should be preserved as specimens of striking and commanding eloquence .♦ Your father was an orator, around whom the public ever thronged with delight, and who that ever heard hiTn can forget the vivacity, grace, and interest of his conversation.
^ The filial duty in which you so promptly engaged, and which you have so well performed, is a high tribute to the memory of Washington (with which that of your honored father is indissolubly united), and a service to that coimtry which stands the only adequate monument of its great chief But I will not presmne to extend tiiese observations farther, since I can add nothing to your information, and should fill a volmne to convey my
* These may be found in the Appendix.
GEORGE WASHZNQTON PARKE CUSTIS. 13
own pleasing recollections, or to express adequately my attachment and obligations to your family.
^ I have the honor to remain, my dear Madam, ^ Most respectfully your friend,
« R R. GURLEY. " Mrs. Mart Custis Lee, Arlington:'
The memoir of one so long known among us as the adopted child of Mount Vernon, whose mind was richly stored with memories of the past, whose heart and home was open to ail who loved to hear of our immortal Washin^n, should be deeply interesting to the world.
The records of his early youth are somewhat imper- fect, as those who could have best furnished the details have passed away ; nor do we find any letters from his foster-father imtil the commencement of his collegiate life at Princeton.
Of his paternal ancestry we have accounts gleaned from a chest of old papers, very curious and amiising (though many have mouldered), containing letters, commissions, deeds and patents for land during the reigns of James IL, William and Mary, and Queen Anne ; and a commission for Major-General John Custis, in 1687, from Johannes, Lord Howard of Effingham, his majesty's lieutenant and governor-general of Virginia^ appointing him collector of customs on the Eastern Shore. Mr. Custis had previ- ously been made major-general to command the forces in that quarter during Bacon's rebellion.* He was the
* The episode in Virginia historj, known as Bacon's rebellion, occurred in 1675 and 1676. The immediate canse of the ontbieak was the dangers threatened by Indians from the north, who had made incursions into the settlements on the James rirer. It was, however, an ontbnrst of republican feeling, which had long been growing in the colonj, and which had become much exasperated by the acts of Got- cmor Berkeley and the aristocracy. Finally, the republicans, under pretence of opposing the Indians, seized their arms, and led on by Kathaniel Bacon, an ener-
14 MIDIOIB OF
owner of a large estate, including several islands. Among these was Smith's island, which is still in possession of the family. General Custis married three wives. In favor of each ■he made a separate will, providing amply for the comfort of his widow, and even binding his successor in her affections (should she have one) by a heavy forfeit, to maintain the dwelling in the same state in which he left it He also devised to her, her own wearing apparel, and any stu£& ordered for her that might be en route from England. To the last one. Madam Tabitha, who survived him, and married Colonel Hill, he bequeathed a handsome riding horse and accoutrements. His five chil- dren, John, Hancock, Henry, Sorrowful Margaret, and Elizabeth, were all apportioned ; and legacies in land and money were left to various friends and to his sisters. The eldest son, John, was especially provided with landed property, out of which a himdred pounds were to be ex- pended yearly for the maintainance and education in England of his son, John, the immediate ancestor of the author of the RecoUediom, whose portrait is preserved at Arlington house. In it, his hand grasps a book, near which a tvUp is placed. The book contained an essay
getic yoang patriot, appeared in formidable array. The movement was without the governor's permission, and he sent troops to arrest the rebel, as he termed Bacon. This led to energetic action. Kepablicanism had become a power in Vii^nia, and, at its command, the governor was compelled, on the 4th of Jalj, 1676 (a hundred years before the great Declaration of Independence), to sign a commission, acknowl- edging Bacon a member of the house of bui^sses, to which the people had elected him ; and also to give him the commission of a general of a thousand men. Finally, the governor summoned all the royalists to his standard, declared Bacon a rebel, and received succor from England. Bacon and his troops, hearing of the approach of an overR'hclming force, laid old Jamestown in ashes, and fled beyond the York river, where he died of maligpiant fever. His followers were dispersed, and the civil war ended. Had Bacon been successful, history would have called him a patriot instead ofare&e/.
a£OBQB WAfimNGTON PABKE CUSTIS. 15
upon that flower, written by himself Many works in the library, classical and scientific, with his name pre- fixed in German text^ embellished with many flourishes (fi>r he seems to have prided himself upon his chirog- raphy), shows that he was a man of letters, though of an eccentric genius.
This John married at "Queene's creeke," on York river, Frances, the eldest daughter of Colonel Daniel Parke. She and her sister, Lucy (afterward the wife of Colonel William Byrd, of Westover,*) resided there with their mother (whose maiden name was Jane Ludwell) in great seclusion, by the express desire of their father, then seeking his fortunes abroadf The mother, in many
* Colonel William Byrd was a distingaished member of the king's counsel in Virginia, toward the close of the seyenteenth century. When, in 1699, about three hundred of the Huguenots, or French Protestants, arrived in Virginia, after fleeing firom persecution in their native land, he received them with fatherly affection, and gave them the most liberal assistance. He was generous to the poor around him. He was well educated, and his library was the largest on the western continent. In 1723, he was one of the commissioners for establishing the boundary line between Virginia and North Carolina. Ho died at an advanced age, in 1743.
t The following letter from Colonel Parke to his daughter, Frances, who married
Colonel Cnstis, is preserved at Arlington House. The orthography of the original
is retained :*^
" St. Javbs' October y* 20^
" Mt Dbar Faknt— 1697.
" I Rec'«* y first letter, and be shure you bo as good as y word and mind y writ- ing and everything else yon have learnt; and doe not learn to Romp, but behave yselie soberly and like A Qentlewoman. Mind Heading; and carry y^self so yt Everyboddy may Bespect you. Be Calm and Obligeing to all the servants, and when yon speak doe it mildly Even to the poorest slave ; if any of the Servants commit small faults y' are of no consequence, do you hide them. If you understand of any great faults they commit, acquaint y mother, but doe not aggravate the fault. I am well, and have sent you everything yon desired, and, please Qod I doe well, I shall see you ere long. Love y sister and y friends ; be dutiful to y mother.
This' with my blessing is from y lo : father
"Dakl. Parks.
" Give my Duty to â–¼' Grandfather, and my love to y Mother and Sister and
lerviss to all friends. My Cosen Brown gives yon her serviss, and y AunU and
Cousins their love."
16 MEMOIR OF
long and urgent letters, implored his return, pleading the state of her health as rendering her unequal to guard her ^xeaaures from the admiring eyes which pm?- sued them whenever they were seen. Colonel Custis, with his foreign education and great wealth, was no despicable suitor. Colonel Parke gave his approval,* and the haughty beauty yielded. He had been fore- warned that he could hope for no complaisance from his bride, whose temper was little calculated to allow happi- ness in her presence ; but with the true spirit of a lover and the gallantry of the age, he professed to feel that to possess her would be heaven enough for him.f Their
* The fiither of youog Colonel Cnstis reoeired the following letter from Colonel
Parke on the snbject :^-
" London, August 25, 1705.
" Sib : I received yours relating to yonr son's desire of marrying my daughter, and yoor consent if I thought well of it. Yon may easily inform yourself that my daughter, Frances, will be heiress to all the land my father left, which is not a little, nor the worst. My personal estate is not rory small in that country, and I hare bat two daughters, and there is no likelihood of my having any more, as matters are, I being obliged to be on one side of the ocean, and my wifio on the other. I do not know your young gentleman, nor hare you or he thought fit to send mo an account of his real and personal effects ; however, if my daughter likes him, I will give her upon her marriage with him, half as much as he can make appear ho is worth.
** I have no one else to give my estate to but my daughters. This is what I think
convenient to write at present. My service to you and all friends in Viiginia.
" From your humble servant, "To Colonel Cubtis." "Daniel Pabkb.
t The following letter of .young CusUs to his intended bride a few months before their marriage, in which, according to the custom of the time, he calls her his " Fidelia," is a fair specimen of passionate love-letters in the old colonial days. Its tone is quite different from that which characterizes the inscription npon his tomb, in which he so pointedly, though indirectly affirms, that his life, while he lived with his " Fidelia," was so unhappy that he considered it a blank in his existence :—
" Willi AHS^URGH, February 4, 1705.
" May angels guard my dearest Fidelia and deliver her safe to my arms at our next meeting ; and sure they wont refuse their protection to a creature so pure and charming, that it would be easy for them to mistake her for one of themselves. If you could but believe how entirely you possess the empire of my heart, yon would easily credit me, when I toll you, that I can neither think nor so much as dream of
GEORGE WASHINGTON PABKE CUSTIS. 17
connubial enjoyments were of short duration^ and in mercy to both, perhaps, after the birth of two children (a son and daughter), the small-pox ended her life at Arlington, on the Eastern Shore. The husband lived many years afterward, and directed in his will that a tomb-stone of white marble (now in existence) should be placed over his grave, inscribed with the following epitaph, to perpetuate his infelicity : —
''UNDER THIS MARBLE TOMB LIES THE BODY
OP THE Hon. JOHN CUSTIS, Esq.,
OF THE CITY OF WILLIAMSBURG,
AND PARISH OF BRUTON.
FORMERLY OF HUNGAR'S PARISH, ON THE
EASTERN SHORE
OF VDftGINIA, AND COUNTY OF NORTHAMPTON,
AGED 71 YEARS, AND YET LIVED BUT SEVEN YEARS,
WmCH WAS THE SPACE OF TIME HE KEPT
A bachelor's home at ABLmOTON,
ON THE EASTERN SHORE OF VIRGINIA."
On the opposite side is the following : —
«THI8 INSCBIPTION PUT ON HIS TOMB WAS BY HIS OWN POSITIVE OBDEBS.*"*
any other subject than the enehanting Fidelia. Yon will do me wrong if jon soS' pect that there ever was a man created that loved with more tenderness and sinceritj than I do, and I should do you wrong if I could imagine there ever was a nymph duu desired it better than you. Take this for granted, and thevfaney how uneasy I am like to be under the nnhappincss of your absence. Figure to yourself what tumults there will arise in my blood, what a fluttering of the spirits, what a disorder of the pulse, what passionate wishes, what absence of thought, and what crowding of sighs, and then imagine how unfit I shall be for business ; but returning to th& dear cause of my uneasiness ; O the torture of six months' expectation ! If it must be so long and necessity will till then interpose betwixt you and my inclinations, Z must submit, though it be as unwillingly as pride submits to superior virtue, or envy to superior success. Pray think of me, and believe that Veramonr is entirely and eternally yours. Aiubu.
"I beg you write as soon as you receive this, and commit your letter to the same^ tmsty hand that brings you this."
* In his will he directed his son to place this inscription upon his tomb^ and pnv vidod for bis disinheritance in the event of his omitting to do so. The tttail> is ia the form of a sarcophagus, about five feet high and as many long.
2
18 MEMOIR OF
The daughter of Colonel Custis, Panny Paike, waa bom in 1710, and married a Captain Dausie, contrary to the wishes of both father and brother, in which she, no doubts followed the bent of her * own phantasy,'' as we find many letters extant from her suitors, who were quite eloquent in setting forth their pretensions, especially, in point of property. The old gentleman was over fastid- ious, and would not listen favorably to any of them ; so it ended, as often it happens, in her marrying the least desirable of them all. In his replies. Colonel Custis always remarked, as a reason for his objections : " I have but two children, and they must inherit all I have.'' Daniel, the son, was the object of very ambitious views. His fine person, large fortune, and irreproachable char- acter, made him quite a desirable match for the fair dames of Virginia^ and many negotiations were com- menced.* His cousin, Eveljni Byrd of Westover, was proposed, but though Colojiel Custis desired earnestly
* Mrs. Parke Pepper, wife of a London merchant, and a relatire, seems to hare desired a matrimonial alliance between the families, as appears by the following letter written by Colonel Custis to hor in 1731 : —
" It is natural to belieye that I must always value a family to whom my two dear pledges are so nearly allied. I do not remember that I expressed anything of matching my daughter to any one. I am sure I had no such thought, so Mr. S. must misapprehend me. Your son may deserve a better match than my daughter, but the distance of place and consanguinity would render such a thing impracticable. She has lately been engaged to a man much against my inclination, and so near, that the wedding-clothes were made, but it is all over now, and she protests she wUl never many him or any one else. My son, I believe, is fixed in his affections, only we think both two young as yet. It is an unhappiness that my children's relations by their mother are placed so far distant. I agree with you, that it might do him good to make you a visit and see the world, but I could not spare him so far from me while I live, if he might have the empress of the universe with the whole creation for a fortune. My children are all the comfort I have in the world, for whoso sakes I have kept myself single, and am determined so to do as long as it shall please God to continue them to me. I no ways doubt of my young kinswoman's virtues and fnalifications, and heartily wish her a husband equal to her meriu. I hope Mr.
GEORGE WASHmOTON PARKE CUSTIS. 19
the connecfaon, he could not be brought to terms ; and at length Colonel Byrd, in a very decided letter, in which he ' tells the wooer how much he regrets his father's impracticability, as he should have preferred him to all others, adds, that he can not trust to such a *^phantome as Colonel Custis's generosity/'
We rather suspect Daniel was not very earnest in the pursuit, as beautiful Martha Dandridge soon effaced all otiier impressions from his hearty and was not so readily relinquished.
She was the most attractive belle at the court of Williamsburg,* and won the affections of all by her grace of manner and heartfelt cheerfulness. Governor Goochf presided over the Old Dominion, and Colonel Custis then held the high office of king's counsellor. Long did he refose to sanction his son's choice, but at length won over by the report he heard on all sides of the charms and virtues of Miss Dandridge, and especially by a message received fipom her, he jdelded, and we find the following memorandmn in his own hand- writing: *I give my firee consent to the union of
Pepper will accept of my best respects. The same salute to jon and joars. I am,
hon'd madam. Tour most obedient senrant,
"JoHK Custis.
"P. S.— If Colonel Parke had lired to see my son, he would have seen his own pictnn to greater perfection than ever Sir Godfrey Kneller could draw it. — J. C."
This postscript refers to the portrait of Colonel Parke, now at Arlington house, painted by that eminent artist, and to which allusion is made in another part of this
* Williamjibuig was the residence of the royal governors of Virginia until the old war for independence, in 1775. GoTcmor Nicholson made it the capital in 1698. In its palmiest days its population did not exceed twenty-five hundred, yet it was the centre of Virginia's sodal refinement
t William Gooch was governor of Virginia from 1787 until 1749, a longer admin tatntkm than thai of any of the royal goveraoTB of that province.
20 MEMOm OF
my son, Daniel, with Mies Martha Dandridge ."* This was a concession he certainly never had cause to regret, OS he soon was an admiring witness of their domestic bliss in their pleasant home on the banks of the Pamunkey. They had four children, Daniel Parke, Fanny Parke, John Parke (the father of the author of the RecoUeelums\ and Martha Parke. The two eldest children died vety young ; and it is said that grief for their loss so preyed upon the mind of the devoted father, who was equally endowed with deep affections, as with manly beauty, that it hastened his death, which occurred at the age of thirty years. He left a young widow with two small children, and a large fortune. His ftimily mourned the loss of a most tender parent, and his numerous servants an indulgent master.f
* On that occasion a Mend of the snitor wrote to him as follows : — '' Dbar Sib : This comes at last to bring yon the news that I believe will be most agreeable to you of any you have ever heard — that yon may not be long in suspense I shall tell you at once — I am empowered by your father to let you know that he heartily and willingly consents to your marriage with Miss Dandridge — that he has BO good a character of her, that he had rather you should have her than any lady in Viiginia — nay, if possible, he is as much enamored with her character as you are with her person, and this is owing chiefly to a prudent speech of her own. Hurry down immediately for fear he should change the strong inclination he has to your marrying directly. I stayed with him all night, and presented Jack with my little Jack's horse, bridle, and saddle, in your name, which was taken as a singular favor. I shall say no more, as I expect to see you soon to-morrow, but conclude what I really am, " Tour most obliged and affectionate humble servant, " To Colonel Davtixl Parke Custis, New Kent." "J. Powbr.
The ''Jack " referred to in this letter was a small negro boy to whom the old gen- tleman had uken a most violent fancy ; and on one occasion when in great displeas- ure with his son, Daniel, on account of his refusing to concur in his ambitious views, he made a will, duly recorded, leaving all his fortune to this boy. Through the soli- citations of his friends and his own paternal feelings, when the ill-humor had vanish- ed, he destroyed that will, but manumitted the boy with his mother, Alice, and pro- vided them with a most comfortable maintenance.
t Daniel Pari^e Custis was bom at ** Queene's croeke," according to the record in - family Bible at Arlington House, on the 15th of October, 1711. There is also a
GEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE CUSTIS. 21
The circumstances attending the union of Mrs. Custis witif^Washington are well known, and a narrative of them will be found m the RecoUectiom.^ Indeed, her life from that time became a matter of history. The death of her only remaining daughter, Martha, at the age of sixteen, threw a cloud of the deepest sorrow over the happiness of the family at Mount Vernon. If we may judge from a miniature taken by the elder Peale, and now in the possession of his son, Bembrandt, and two other portraits, she was endowed with rare beauty, and yet of a com- plexion so deeply brunette, that she was always called the ^ dark lady." Her delicate health, or, perhaps her fond aflfection for the only father she had ever known, so endeared her to the "general," that he knelt at her dying bed, and with a passionate burst of tears, prayed aloud that her life might be spared, imconscious that even then her spirit had departed.
Martha expired at Mount Vernon on the 19th of June, 1773. Washington had been absent at Williamsburg, on public duty, for sometime, and on his retimi found her in the last stage of consumption. He had arranged to accompany the governor of Virginia (Lord Dmmiore) to the western country, but the death of Miss Custis caused him to remain at home a long time to console his wife, and recover from the.ejffects of the blow. In
leoord there, that " Governor Spottswood, the Honorable William Byrd, Esq., and Mrs. Hannah Ladwell, were godfathers and godmother/' There were some por- traits of the Castis family at Abington, on the Potomac, which have long since cmmbled into dost. One who bore the name of Custis is remembered as being represented as a soldier, in a complete sait of armor; and two now at Arlington, painted by Van Dyke, tradition says came from Holland, where the family origi- nated. The portraits of Daniel Parke Castts, hasband of Miss Dandridge (after- ward Mm. Washington), and of his father, are both at Arlington house. * See sketch of Martha Washin^n.
22 ME&iom OF
testimony of her love for her stepfather, Miss Custis be- queathed to him all of her large fortune, which wa^ en- tirely in money.
Of Colonel Daniel Parke, already mentioned as one of the ancestors of the present Custis family, and of his eventful career, an interesting volume might be written. This is not the place for even a very extended notice of him ; yet some facts and correspondence, having a re- lation to the family, seem to find here an appropriate position. Besides this, they give us glimpses of char- acter in the olden time, which will not fail to gratify the reader and pardon a digression.
There is a splendid portrait of Colonel Parke at Ar- lington house, painted by Sir Godfrey Kneller, in which he is represented as arrayed in a coat of crimson velvet embroidered with gold, and which well becomes his fine figure and eminently handsome face. He was bom in the colonies, but passed most of his life in England, where he possessed valuable estates, leaving his wife with two daughters in charge of his Virginia property, which was also extensive. She found this charge so burdensome, that in her letters, as we have already observed, she begs to be relieved, and urges his return. She even wrote to his merchant and man of business, Micajah Perry, to use his influence in persuading him to return. But the fascinations of the court prevailed over a sense of duty, and while there he was appointed aid- de-camp to the great Duke of Marlborough, attended him in the battle of Blenheim, and was made the bearer of the following letter to the Duchess of Marlborough: —
"I have not time to say more, but to beg you will give my duty to the queen, and let her know her army
GEORGE WASHINGTON PABKE CUSTIS. 23
has had a glorious victory. M. Tallard and two other generals are in my coach^ and I am following the rest The bearer, my aid-de-camp, Colonel Parke, will give her an accomit of what has passed I shall do it in a day or two by another more at large.* *' Maklborough.
"^ August 13, 1704."
It is a high honor to be the bearer of tidings of victory to a monarch, and at that time a reward of £500 was usually given by the sovereigns of England for such services. Colonel Parke, whose estate was ample, re- quested Queen Anne to give him her portrait instead. The request was granted, and the portrait was painted in miniature, and set with diamonds. Colonel Parke's por- trait, painted in 1707, shows this miniature pendant from his neck by a red ribbon, Marlborough's despatch to the queen in his right hand, and the battle of Blenheim in the backgroimd. Another portrait of Colonel Parke, painted by Ejieller, is still in the possession of William Dillon, Esq., whose late wife was his great-niece.
It appears by the following letter to his daughter, that Colonel Parke went to Flanders as a volimteer, where, doubtless, his gallant conduct won for him his appoint* ment in the staflF of Marlborough : —
« St. James, 1702.
^ My Drab Fanny : I am going a volunteer under the Duke of Marlborough, to Flanders, where I served also in the last campaign with my Lord Arron, the Duke of
* This battle waa fought on the 2d of August, 1704, between the English and confederates, commanded by Marlborongh, and the £*rench and Bavarians under Marshal Tallard and the Elector of Bavaria. The loss of the latter was twenty- leren thousand killed and thirteen thousand prisoners. The English nation re- warded Marlborough with a large domain, and erected for him one of the finest scats b the kingdom, known as the domain and house of Blenheim.
24 MBBfOIR OF
Ormand's brother, and was in every action. God knows if I may ever see you more, but if I do not, I shall take care to leave you and your sister in very happy circum- stances, therefore do not throw yourself away upon the first idle young man that offers if you have a mind to marry. I know it is the desire of all young people to be married, and though very few are as happy after mar- riage as before, yet every one is willing to make the experiment at their own expense. Consider who you marry is the greatest concern to you in the world. Be kind and good-natiured to all yomr servants. It is much better to have them love you than fear you. My heart is in Virginia, and the greatest pleasure I propose to myself is the seeing you and yom* sister happy. That you may be ever so, is the earnest desire of yomr affec- tionate father, « Daniel Parke.
^ I got some reputation last summer, which I hope I shall not lose this ; I am promised the fiiist old regiment that shall fall, being now made a colonel."
Colonel Parke was afterward commissioned a general, and appointed governor of the Leeward islands. An old book in the Arlington library, written by George French, contains an account of his administration there, and of the rebellion in Antigua, by which it seems that he became obnoxious to a seditious faction, was overpowered by numbers, and when there were no hopes of safety showed an undaimted resolution. When he had scarcely a second left, iu a personal defence, he de- fied the whole strength of the rebels, till at last, he received a shot in his thigh, which, though not mortal, disabled him, and he fell into the enemy's hands.
GEORGE WASHINGTON EAB££ CUSTIS. 25
*^ They had now an opportunity of sending him away to what place and in what manner they think fit/' says the account^ " but instead thereof, they use him with the utmost contempt and inhumanity. They strip him of his clothes, kick, spurn at, and beat him with the butts of their muskets, by which means, at last, they break his back. They drag him out into the streets by a leg and arm, and his head trails and beats from step to step of the stone stairs at the entrance of his house, and he is dragged on the coarse gravelly street, which raked the skin from his bones.
^ These cruelties and tortinres force tears from his eyes, and in this condition he is left expiring, exposed to the scorching sun, out of the heat of which he begs to be removed. The good-natured woman, who, at his request, brought him water to quench his thirst, is threatened by one Samuel Watkins to have a sword passed through her for her humanity, and the water is dashed out of her hands. He is insulted and reviled by every scoundrel, in the agonies of death, but makes no other return but these mild expressions : * Gentlemen, if you have no sense of honor left, pray have some of humanity.' He grateftdly owns the kindness of friends, and prays God to reward those who stood by him that day. At last he was removed into the house of one Mr. John Wright, near the place where he lay, and there, recommending his soul to God, with some pious ejacula- tions, he pays the great debt of nature, and death, less cruel than his enemies, put a period to his sujSerings.
^ After they had surfeited themselves with cruelties, they plundered the general's house and broke open his store-houses, so that his estate must have suffered by
26 MEacom of
that day in money, plate, jewels, clothes, and household goods, by the most moderate computation, five thousand pounds sterling, for which his executors have obtained no satisfaction to this day. Thus died Colonel Parke, whose brave end shows him sufficiently desendng of the commission he bore, and by his death acquired an honor to his memory, which the base aspersions of his enemies could not overthrow," This tragedy occurred on the 7th of December, 1710.
Colonel Parke's will, in which he devised all of his for- tune in the Leeward islands to an illegitimate daughter, on condition that she should take his name and coatof- arms, naturally gave great offence to his children, and a tedious law-suit was the consequence. His legal de- scendants are still in possession of much of his property in Virginia, and part of the handsome service of plate presented to him by Queen Anne. His friends maintain that in his public career his life was irreproachable, and that loyalty to the queen was the cause of his destruc- tion ; yet his royal mistress forgot her favorite, allowed his murderers to hold his government of Antigua^ and never remimerated his heirs for the losses sustained in her cause. The treatment he received is an emphatic example of the wisdom of the injunction, ^ Put not your trust in princes."
Among the old family papers at Arlington house, I have found many amusing and interesting letters, written by Colonel William Byrd, of Westover (to whom refer- ence has already been made), who as we have observed, married a daughter of Colonel Parke, and was for a long time in London after the death of his father-in-law, at- tending to the settlement of that gentleman's estate.
GEORQE WASHmOTON PARKE CUSTIS. 27
As some of these letters have reference to famUy matters, and are interesting in themselves, I insert a few, believ- ing that they are not ont of place here, considering their connection. They are addressed to Colonel John Custis, his brother-in-law.
The following letter, in which reference is made to Colonel Parke, was written in Virginia two years before the tragedy occurred in Antigua: —
« October, 1709.
^ I have lately been favored with an unusual pleasinre from Antigua, in which I find we have not altogether been forgotten. Our Father Parke says his time was very short and he could not write to you theriy but is much in charity with us all. I give you joy on the blessing you have had of a daughter, and hope she will be an ornament to the sex, and a happiness to her parents. Our son sends you his dutiful respects, and I may ven- ture to say, as much for Miss Evelyn, who has grown a great romp, and enjoys very robust health. How is Madam Dunn? for there goes a prophecy about, that in the eastern parts of Virginia a parson's wife will, in the year of our Lord, 1710, have four children at a birth, one of which will be an admiral, and another Archbishop of Canterbury. What the other two will prove, the sybil can not positively say, but doubtless they will be some- thing extraordinary.
^'My choicest compliments to Mrs. Custis, and if Mrs. Dunn be not too demure a prude, now she is related to the church, I would send her my salutes in the best form. " Your most affectionate humble servant,
W. Bybd.
"To Colonel John Custis."
28 MEMOIR OS*
On the 21st of January, 1715, Colonel Byxd wrote to Colonel CuBtis, from London, as follows : —
" Tis a singular pleasure to hear by my brigantme of my dear brother's recovery from so sharp and tedious an illness. I long to be with you, for this place, that used to have so many charms is very tasteless, and though my person is here, my heart is in Virginia. My affairs suc- ceed well enough, but all solicitation goes on very slowly by reason that the ministry is taken up with the Rebel- lion, which is still as flagrant as ever in Scotland, and my patron, the Duke of Argyle, commands there against them.* I am in perfect peace with all concerned in debts due from Colonel Parke. I have paid the most importunate, and allow interest for the bonds I can not yet discharge, and should be very easy if I could get the interest of his customhouse debt remitted, which I do not yet despair of. I wish my dear brother a full con- firmation of his health. If he has the courage to venture upon another wife, I hope he will be more easy in his second choice than he was in his firstf
^ I am, with most entire aflection, dear brother,
"Your most obedient servant., W. Byed."
* King James II., was driycn from the English throne in 1688. In 1715 his son, Edward, made an nnsueeessfal attempt, through the aid of the Scotch, to regain the throne of his father, as his ancle, Charles II., had that of his sire, in 1660. This effort produced quite a serious rebellion. A grandson of King James made another attempt to recover the throne by the aid of the Scotch, in 1745, and a still more seri- ous rebellion was the consequence. The father and son who made these attempts, are known in history as the Old and the Toung Pretenders.
t At about this time Colonel Byrd purchased a watch in London for Colonel Custis, and in a letter that accompanied it to Virginia, he said : " I forebode this to be a sort of equipage with which you intend to set out a courting. The misfortune is, that you can not with tolerable decency draw forth your watch in presence of your mistress without giving her some suspicion that you measure the time you spend in her company."
GEOBGB WASHINCnON PAfiKS CUSTIS. 29
Again, on the 2d of October, 1716, Colonel Byrd wrote from London to Colonel Custis, as follows : —
" It is a great surprise to you as to many others, that Mr. Roscow has been made receiver-general * I confess, if I had ffwen away the place, it is likely Mr. Boscow is not the person in the world I should soonest have given it to, but if you put the case that I sold it, you would not wonder that I should dispose of it to so fair a bidder as he was; and, indeed, I fancy there are not many would have given £500 for it Besides, it is not an easy matter to transfer an office depending upon the treasury ; and if I should have taken so much time as to send over to Virginia to treat with any person there, I might have slipt my opportunity and lost my market This being the case, you wiU cease to wonder at the matter. The kind visit which my wife has made me wiU be the occasion of my staying here another winter, that so she may see this town in all its glory ; and I am the more content to tarry, because the lieutenant-governor has sent over a spiteful complaint against me and Colonel Ludwell, which it concerns me to answer. I assure you it was not my apprehension of being Removed by any complaint that might be formed against me that made me resign ; but such an office as that of receiver- general of the king's revenue makes a man liable to be ill-treated by a governor, under the notion of advancing his majesty's interest, by which pious pretence he may
* Beceirer-genenl of the oolonj of Virginia, held by Colonel Bjrd at that time. This letter lifts the veil from the secret workings of the old colonial government, when placemen disposed of offices to the highest bidders ; for then, as now, there were buge opportunities for public plunder. The people then had tittle to say oon- oeraing the administration of pnblic affairs, especiallj hj those appointed bj the
30 MEMOm OF
heap insupportable trouble upon that officer, if he should have the spirit to oppose his will and pleasiure — he must either be a slave to his humor, must fawn upon him, and jiunp over a stick whenever he is bid, or else he must have so much trouble loaded upon him as to make his place uneasy. In shorty such a man must be either the governor's dog or his ass ; neither of which stations suit in the least with my constitution. For this reason I resolved to make the most of it by surrender- ing to any one that would come up to my price, well knowing that my interest in the treasury was suffi- cient to do it, and now I am at full liberty to oppose every design that may seem to be arbitrary or unjust The cmrrent news which you had of my being governor of the Leeward Islands, expresses very naturally the genius of our country for invention. I protest to you it never once entered into my head to sue for that gov- ernment
" God in heaven bless you and your two little cherubs, to whom I wish all happiness, being your most affection- ate brother,
«W. Byrd."
At this time Colonel Byrd wrote as follows to an im- known female friend : —
" I have been made happy with several of Irene's let- ters, and at this time stand in need of most diversion to support me under the melancholy I suffer for my dear Fidelia's absence. I fear you are too busy in copying after the wise women that Solomon describes, to spend much of your time upon hm do ye's. But remember that the consequence of care is early wrinkles, and what* ever you may get by it> you will be sure to lose in
GEORGE WASmNOTON PARKE CUSTIS. 31
peace and constitution. They tell me you have been immoderately afflicted for the loss of your * dear Poppet,* but, by the terms on which it was born, you were to part with it when its Maker pleased. You ought to have re- flected that Providence acts by unerring wisdom, and therefore would never had recalled its gifts but because it was better so than the contrary would be. God Al- mighty is ever contriving for our happiness, and does many things for our good which appear to our short sight to be terrible misfortunes. But by the time the last act of the play comes on, we grow convinced of our mistake, and look back with pleasure to those scenes which at first appeared unfortunate. This is the case in most accidents that are called disasters, misery, and many other terms, which our ignorance gives them. We should imitate the philosopher that we read of, who, when he heard of his son's death, calmly observed, that he was saved from the evil to come ; and of the misconduct of his wife, told his friend without any disorder, that he knew he had married a woman. This equality of temper would save the world abundance of sighs and com- plaints, especially that part of it that acknowleges itself in the care of a wise and merciful God.
^ Pardon me, dear Irene, for preaching, which is ill-bred, because it supposes that the party stands in need of it However, I can excuse the rudeness by pleading the in- finite inclination I have for your happiness. I would have you without fault, which will suppose you without any misfortune.**
Toward the close of the year 1716, Colonel Byrd wrote to Colonel Custis, as follows : —
" My daughter, Evelyn, has arrived safe, thank God, and
82 MEMOIR OF
I hope I shall manage her in such a manner, that she may be no discredit to her comitry. I am endeavoring to get something from the treasury for your children and mine, but as the success of it is somewhat doubtful, I will mention no more about it till it shall be deter- mined. I do long to see you, but can hardly persuade myself to return till I can get it decided, whether a governor may hang any man he takes to be his adver- sary or not For if it be in his power to appoint me my judges, I am sure I won't come within his reach lest I fall a sacrifice to his resentment However, I am laboring with all my might to hinder so great a power from being lodged in any bashaw, lest they be too mudi inclined to make use of it. We have got both the to- bacco law and that about the Indian trade repealed, which I hope may not be unacceptable to the country. I wish you, and your dear, pretty children, aU health and happiness, being with all my love, dear brother, your most obedient, hmnble servant W. Byrd."
Shortly after this. Colonel Byrd conveyed to Colonel Custis very melancholy intelligence, as follows : —
"London, I3th December, 1716.
" When I wrote last I little expected that I should be forced to tell you the very melancholy news of my dear Lucy's death, by the very same, cruel distemper that destroyed her sister. She was taken with an insupport- able pain in her head. The doctor soon discovered her ailment to be the small-pox, and we thought it best to tell her the danger.* She received the news without
♦ Two years later than this (1718), Lady Mary Wortley Montagu retarned from Constantinople, and intcoduced the practice of inoculatum for the small-pox, which she had learned while in that eastern city. Vaccinalion was introduced by Jenner, about the year 1776.
OBOBGE WASHINOTON PABEE CUSTIS. 33
&,e least fiight^ and was persuaded she would live until the day she died, which happened in 12 hours from the time she was taken. Gracious Grod what pains did she take to make a voyage hither to seek a grave. No stranger ever met with more respect in a strange coun- tij than she had done here, from many persons of dis- tinction, who all pronounced her an honor to Virginia. Alas ! how proud was I of her, and how severely am I punished for it. But I can dwell no longer on so afflict- ing a subject^ much less can I think of anything else, therefore, I can only recommend myself to your pity, wd am as much as any one can be, dear brother, your most affectionate and humble servant, W. Bt£d."
Returning from this long digression, we will resume the memoir of the author of the RecoUediom.
George Washington Parke Custis was bom at Mount Airy, Maryland, on the thirtieth of April, 1781. That was the seat of his maternal grandfather, Benedict Gal- vert, a descendant of Cecil Calvert, Lord Baltimore.* The walls of this venerable mansion are graced with fine portraits of several of the Lords Baltimore, by Vandyke; and one of Eleanor Calvert, the mother of Mr. Custis. It represents a young lady of a romantic and slight figure in a riding costume, with a bojr's hat and open jacket She seems scarcely fifteen, with a bright and hopeful countenance. Such was her temper- ament, we are told, through all the toils of life. The com- mencement of her career was brilliant enough. Married at sixteen to John Parke Custis, a youth of nineteen,
* CecQ Calrert was the lecond Lord Baltimore, and son 8f the first of that title, uto obtained from Charles the First a charter for a domain in America, which, in honor of his Qnoen, Henriette Marie (Marf ), he called Maanflandn
3
S4 iiEai<»E OF
ihe ward and favorite of Washington^ the only son of Mrs. Washington, of large fortune, and a most amiable and generous disposition, they passed several years at Abingdon, a country-seat on the Potomac, near Wash- ington city, in the enjoyment of such felicity as rarely fidls to the lot of mortals.
After the death of Mrs. Washington's daughter, al- ready mentioned, the hopes of the mother centred in this son, who was then between sixteen and seventeen years of age. She was extremely indulgent to him, and she often pleaded in his behalf, when Washington found it necessary to exercise a wholesome restraint upon hisL He was placed under the care of an episco- pal clergyman, at Annapolis, in Maryland, to be educated, but the wayward boy was frequently away from his studies, engaged in fox-hunting and other amusements at Mount Vernon. He conceived a strong desire to travel, but Washington opposed a scheme that would interrupt his studies. It was abandoned, but he soon because diverted from his books by a passion stronger than a desire to travel. He became deeply enamored of Eleanor, the second daughter of Benedict Calvert, of Mount Airy, Maryland, and much to the concern of Washington, when he discovered it, they formed a matri- monial engagement His only objection was their ex- treme youth ; and on the third of April, 1773, he ad- dressed the following letter to Mr. Calvert : —
" Mount Vkrnon, April 8rd, 1773.
**Dbae Sm : I am now set down to write to you on a
subject of importance, and of no small embarrassment
to me. My son-in-law and ward, Mr. Custis, has, as I
have been informed, paid his addresses to your second
GEOBOE WASHINQTON VABSE CUSTIS. 36
dai^ter, and^ having made some progress in her affeo- tions^ has solicited her in marriage. How ftr a miion c^ this sort may be agreeable to you, you best can tell ; but I diould think myself wanting in candor, were I not to confess, that Miss Nelly's amiable qualities are acknowl- edged on all hands, and that an alliance with your family will be pleasing to hi&
** This acknowledment being made, you must permit me to add, sir, that at this, or in any short time, his youth, inexperience, and unripened education, are, and will be, insuperable obstacles, in my opinion, to the comr jdetion of the marriage. As his guardian, I consider it my indispensable duty to endeavor to carry him through a regular course of education (many branches of which, I am sorry to add, he is totally deficient in), and to guard his youth to a more advanced age, before an events on which his own peace and the happiness of an- other are to depend, takes place. Not that I have any doubt of the warmth of his affections, nor, I hope I may add, any fears of a change in them ; but at present I do not conceive that he is capable of bestowing that atten- tion to the important consequences of the married state, which is necessary to be given by those who are about to enter into it, and of course I am unwilling he should do it till he is. J£ the affection which they have avowed £>r each other is fixed upon a solid basis, it wiU receive no diminution in the course of two or three years, in which time he may prosecute his studies, and thereby render himself more deserving of the lady, and useful to society. I^ unfortunately, as they are both young, there should be an abatement of affection on either side, or both^ it had better precede than follow marriage.
36 MEMOm OF
^ Delivering my sentiments thus freely will not, I hope, lead you into»a belief that I am desirous of breaking off the matcL To postpone it is all I have in view ; for I shall recommend to the young gentleman, wHii the warmth that becomes a man of honor (notwithstanding he did not vouchsafe to consult either his mother or me on the occasion), to consider himself aa much engaged to your daughter as if the indissoluble knot were tied ; and, as the smrest means of effecting this, to apply him- self closely to his studies (and in this advice, I flatter myself, you will join me), by which he will, in a great measure, avoid those little flirtations with other young ladies, that may, by dividing the attention, contribute not a little to divide the affection.
^It may be expected of me, perhaps, to say something of property; but, to descend to particulars, at this time, must seem rather premature. In general, therefore, I shall inform you, that Mr. Custis's estate consists of about fifteen thousand acres of land, a good part of it adjoining the city of Williamsburg, and none of it forty miles from that place; several lots in the said city; between two and three hundred negroes; and about eight or ten thousand pounds upon bond, and in the hands of his merchants. This estate he now holds, inde- pendent of his mother's dower, which will be an addition to it at her death ; and, upon the whole, it is such an estate as you will readily acknowledge, ought to entitle him to a handsome portion with a wife. But as I should never require a child of my own to make a sacrifice of himself to interest^ so neither do I think it incumbent on me to recommend it as a guardian.
At all times when you, Mrs. Calvert^ or the yoimg
GEORGB WASHINQTON PAKKE CUSTIS. 37
ladies can make it convenient to favor ns with a visit^ we should be happy in seeing you at this place. Mrs. Washington and Miss Custis join me in respectful com- pliments, and^
^ I am, dear sir, your most obedient servant"
It was agreed that the youth should pass two years at college, before the marriage could take place. He was sent to King's (now Columbia) college, in New York city, but he remained there only a few months. Love and learning did not move in harmony, and on the third of February, 1774, young Custis was married to Miss Calvert, when the bridegroom was a little more than nineteen years of age.
Four children were the fruits of this union, all bom at Abingdon^ except George Washington Parke. Elizabeth Parke was bom on the twenty-first of August, 1776, and married Mr. Law, nephew of Lord Ellenborough. She was a lady of great beauty and talent Martha Parke was bom on the thirty-first of December, 1777, and was early married to Thomas Peter. She was a woman of fine and dignified appearance. Her husband was a man of wealth, and great excellence of character ; and she passed her long life in the conscientous performance of all her domestic duties. Eleanor Parke, bom on the twenty-first of March, 1779, married Lawrence Lewis, the favorite nephew of General Washington. George Washington Parke, the yoimgest child, first saw the light, as we have observed, at Mount Airy, in April, 1781.
Very soon the bright sky that illumined the household of John Parke Custis and his yoimg wife became dark-
38 MEMOIR OF
ened. He was aid-de-camp to General Washington at the siege of Yorktown, A violent attack of camp-feyer obliged him to leave his post for Eltham, a place not far distant General Washington hastened thither as soon as possible, but was met at the door by Dr. Craik, who informed him that all was over. The chief bowed his head, and in tears gave vent to his deep sorrow ; then turning to the weeping mother, he said : ^ I adopt the two younger children as my own."* Thus, at six months of age, did my father, the subject of this Memoir, become the child of Moimt Vernon, the idol of his grandmother, and an object on which was lavished the caresses and attention of the many distinguished guests who thronged that hospitable mansion. His beautiful sis- ter Nelly often observed : ^ Grandmamma always spoiled Washington." He was ^the pride of her heart," while the public duties of the veteran prevented the exercise of his influence in forming the character of the boy, foo softly nurtured under his roof, and gifted with talents which, imder a sterner discipline, might have been made more available for his own and his country's good.
It was not until he entered the college at Princeton, that the attention of the "father^' was particularly drawn to those faults, which should have been cor- rected at an earlier period. The deep solicitude which these faults occasioned may be estimated, in a meas- ure, by the correspondence between Washington and the son of his adoption, appended to this Memoir.
At the time of the birth of Eleanor (the eldest of the two children adopted by Washington), her mother was
* Geoxge Washington Parke Castis» and Eleanor Parke Costis.
GBOBGB WASBQDfrOTOK P^EE CUSTIB. 39
very ill^ and Mrs. Waahingion took the child to Mount Vernon, to be nuxsed by the wife of the steward, a healthy English woman named Anderson, who had lost her infant She called Mrs. Anderson ^ mammy,'' and remembered running with her to meet the General and Lady Washington, on their return from camp in a caiv liage drawn by six horses. She was then three yeani old, having remained all that time mider the care of Mrs. Lund Washington, the wife of the general's ageni Her young brother, George, was nursed by the same womaiL
A daughter of Mrs, Lewis, (formerly Eleanor Park^ Custis) informed the writer that their first tutor was Gideon Snow. "I saw him when I was in Boston," she said, ^ in 1824. He called with a grown daughter to see my mother, and talked of 'little George' and seemed sincerely attached to both his pupUs, and to be himself respected and beloved in Boston."* Their seo-
* Ths foUowing letter, written to Mr. Cnstifl by his old tator, after the hipae of more than fifty years, possesses macfa interest : —
<'Bo8TOV, HkMartk, 1850.
'^Mt Dbax Fbikhd : I am mach gratified by receiving yoor esteemed letter of 8d instant yesterday. You ask a oopy of yonr letter of ancient date. With pleas- me I comply with yoor request. The original has been presenred with care and interest, for the love I bore the writer; but if the writer has a wish to possess it, I shall be gratified to send it to him. I reoeired it enclosed by onr mntoal friend, Mr. Iiear, in a letter, which I can not find, but recollect he infoimed me it was written at yoor own request, on a rery warm afternoon. When finished you expressed your wish to have it forwarded. Mr. Lear requested me to retain it with care, as it was the first letter you had expressed a wish to write, and the time would come when yon woold reoeiTe pleasure in seeing it should your life be spared.
"I showed you the letter when I had the pleasure of meeting you in Boston, after an absence of more than fifty years. I do not recollect naming the date at any time. I might have done so — the date is 1787, instead of 1785 as named by you.
"In looking over a few of Mr. Lear's letters, which I have retained, I see, under date July 9th, 1787, 'I have a message : Washington sends his love to you, and says yon are not a man of yonr word, for yon promised to come down here on Sun-
40 HEMOIB OF
ond tutor was Mr. Lear, afterward private secretary to General Washington^ who lived at the president's house in Philadelphia.
Nelly Gustis was considered one of the most beautiful women of the day, to which her portrait^ at Arlington house, by Gilbert Stuart, bears testimony. All who knew her can recall the pleasure which they derived fix>m her extensive information, brilliant wit^ and boundless generosity. The most tender parent and devoted friend, she lived in the enjoyment of her affections."^ She was often urged to write her memoirs, which might even have surpassed, in interest to her coxmtrymen, those of Madame de Sevigne and others of equal note, as her pen gave free utterance to her lively imagination and clear memory. Would that we could recall the many tales of the past we have heard from her lips, but alas ! we should fail to give them accurately. One narrative
dmj and did not/— Mj inclination was good, but a call to another act preyented. Whon we met again yonr interest did not appear diminished. On the 9th January, 1788, * handsome soft black doth was purchased for your coat and overalls.' Dec. 18, 1788, 1 was asked to inquire of Dr. Craik where he procured the Latin grammar for his sons, ' as I am about initiating my young pupil in that language.' These extracts may amuse. From your dear, departed mother I always received maternal kindness . The recollection of her will never pass from me. I passed one Sunday at Hope Pftrk very happUy. Your dear mother and your sisters were present. Mrs. Snow requests her respectful remembrance. I thought of you at Richmond with the president I imagined you happy in the enjoyments of the interesting scene. I thank you for your kind wishes, and sincerely reciprocate them.
" GiDBON Snow."
The following is the copy of the letter alluded to by Mr. Snow : —
"MouKT Vbrwom, 3% latA, 1787.
"DsAB Skow : I should be very happy to see you here if you can find time to OMue down. When will you send my waggon to me ? For my old one is almost worn out, and I shall have none to get in my harvest with. I am, dear Snow, your friend, &c..
Very H'ble Serv't, G. W. P. Cubtis."
* She died in Clarke county, Vtiginia, in 1859, at the age of seventy-four years.
GEOBOE WASHIROTON PABSE CUSTIS. 41
is retained, as it made a strong impression at the time. She said the most perfect harmony always existed ^be- tween her grandmamma and the general;" that in all his intercourse with her he was most considerate and tender. She had often seen her when she had some- thing to communicate, or a request to make, at a mo- ment when his mind was entirely abstracted from the present^ seize him by the button to command his atten- tion, when he would look down upon her with a most benignant smile, and become at once attentive to her and her wishes, which were never slighted. She also said, the grave dignity which he usually wore did not prevent his keen enjo3anent of a joke, and that no one laughed more heartily than he did, when she, her- self, a gay, laughing girl, gave one of her saucy descrip- tions of any scene iu which she had taken part, or any one of the merry pranks she then often played; and that he would retire from the room in which her young companions were amusing themselves, because his presence created a reserve which they could not overcome. But he always regretted it exceedingly, as he liked nothing better than to look on at their sports and see them happy. His letter to her on the occasion of her first ball, may be so appropriately introduced here, that we give it entire, precisely as it was written in the original, now before us. Miss Custis was then about sixteen years of age.
« PmLA., January 16, 1795. ^ Your letter, the receipt of which I am now acknowl- edging, is written correctly and in fair characters, which is an evidence that you command, when you please, a fair hand. Possessed of these advantages, it will be
48 lODixHB or
your own fiiult if you do not avail yourself of them, and attention being paid to the choice of your BubjectB, you can have nothing to fear fix>m the malignancy of criticism, as your ideas are lively, and your descriptions agreeable. Let me touch a little now on your George* town ball, and happy, thrice happy, for the fair who were assembled on the occasion, that there was a man to spare ; for had there been 79 ladies and only 78 gen- tlemen, there might, in the course of the evening, have been some disorder among the caps; notwithstanding tibie apathy which cm of the company entertains for the ^ymdK of the present day, and her determination ' never to give herself a moment's uneasiness on account of any of them.' A hint here ; men and women feel the same inclinations to each other wm that they always have done, and which they will continue to do until there is a new order <^ things, and ym^ as others have done, may find, perhaps, that the passions of your sex are easier raised than allayed. Do not^ therefore, boast too soon or too strongly of your insensibility to, or resist- ance of, its powers. In the composition of the human frame there is a good deal of inflammable matter, how- ever dormant it may lie for a time, and like an inti- mate acquaintance of yours, when the torch is put to it, that which is vMhin yoti may bmrst into a blaze ; for which reason, and especially too, as 1 have entered upon the chapter of advices, I will read you a lecture drawn from this text
^ Love is said to be an involuntary passion, and it is, therefore, contended that it can not be resisted. This is true in part only, for like all things else, when nomv ished and supplied plentifully with aliment^ it is rapid in
GEOBGE WASKINCaOBr BAKEE CUSTI8. 4S
ito progress; but let these be mthdraTm and it maj be stifled in its birth or much stinted in its growth. For example, a woman (the same may be said of the other sex) all beautiful and accomplished, will, while her hand and heart are undisposed of, turn the heads and set the circle in which she moves on fire. Let her murty^ and what is the consequence. The madness ceases and all is quiet again. Why ? not because there is any diminution in the charms of the lady, but because there is an end of hope. Hence it fbllows, that love may and therefore ought to be imder the guidance of reason, for although we can not avoid first impressions, we may assuredly place them imder guard; and my motives for treating on this subject are to show you, while you remain Eleanor Parke Custis, spinster, and retain the resolution to love with moderation, the pro^ priety of adhering to the latter resolution, at least until yon have secured your game, and the way by which it may be accomplished.
^ When the fire is beginning to kindle, and your heart growing warm, propound these questions to it Who is tfaki invader ? Have I a competent knowledge of him ? Is he a man of good character ; a man of sense ? For, be assured, a sensible woman can never be happy with a fooL What has been his walk of life ? Is he a gambler, a spendthrift, or drunkard ? Is his fortune sufiicient to maintain me in the manner I have been accustomed to live, and my sisters do live, and is he one to whom my friends can have no reasonable objection ? If these in- terrogatories can be satisfactorily answered, there will r^QQiain but one more to be asked, ttiat, however, is an important one. Have I sufl&cient groimd to conclude
44 MEHOIB OF
that his affections are engaged by me? Without this the heart of sensibility will struggle against a passion that is not reciprocated — delicacy, custom, or call it by what epithet you will, having precluded all advances on your part The declaration, without the most indirect in- vitation of yours, must proceed from the man, to render it permanent and valuable, and nothing short of good sense and an easy imaffected conduct can draw the line between prudery and coquetry. It would be no great departure from truth to say, that it rarely happens otherwise than that a thorough-paced coquette dies in celibacy, as a punishment for her attempts to mislead others, by encouraging looks, words, or actions, given for no other purpose than to draw men on to make overtures that they may be rejected.
" This day, according to our information, gives a hus- band to your elder sister, and consummates, it is to be presiuned, her fondest desires. The dawn with us is bright, and propitious, I hope, of her future happiness, for a full measure of which she and Mr. Law have my earnest wishes. Compliments and congratulations on this occasion, and best regards are presented to your mamma, Dr. Stuart and family; and every blessing, among which, a good husband when you want and de- serve one, is bestowed on you by yours, affectionately.'**
This beautiful and accomplished lady married Law- rence Lewis, the favorite nephew of Washington, and
* Washington wrote many other letters to his sprightly ward and foster-child, bat they have been lost or destroyed. These seem to show how his comprehensive mind had moments of thought and action to bestow on all connected with him, and how deeply his affections were interested in the family of his wife, who were cared for as if they had been his own. They were written at a time when the cares of state, as nresident of the republic, were pressing heavily upon him.
C----''^: ^>-^::^-<^-'<:-<---'21--<^
OEOBSB WASHnfOTON FABEE 008118.
45
"Gbobob W. p. Costib."
C )
GBOBGE WASmNGTON PABEE CUSTIB. 45
Bon of his only sister^ Elizabeth^ of whose rema:rkable resemblance to the general, mention is made in the memoir of their mother, given in the RecoUectiom. They were married on the twenty-second of February (Wash- ington's birthday), 1799. A month before, Washington wrote to his nephew, «s follows : —
"Mount Vernon, 2M January^ 1799.
" Dear Lawrence : Your letter of the 10th instant I received in Alexandria, on Monday, whither I went to become the guardian of Nelly, thereby to authorize a license for your nuptials on the 22d of next months whei^ I presume, if your health is restored, there will be no impediment to your union.*
. **The letters herewith sent were received two or three days ago ; and until your letter of the above date came to hand, I knew not with certainty to what place to direct them. They are put xmder cover to your brother of Fredericksburgh, to await your arrival at that place.
^I enclose the one to your lieutenant, Mr. Lawrence Washington, for safety, and because it may be necessary that you should have a conference with him respecting the plan for recruiting your troops when the order and the means for doing so are received. All, however, that you, Washington, and Custis, have to do at present, is simply to acknowledge the receipt of the letter from the
* The following letter, anthorizing the license, is copied from the original, which it addressed " To Captain Qeorge Deneale, clerk of Fair&z county court :" —
"Mount Vebhom, \9th FA. 1799. " Sis : Yon will please to grant a license for the marriage of Eleanor Parke Costis with Lawrence Lewis, and this shall be your authority for so doing. "From sir, " WUnets, " Your yeiy humble servant,
"Thomas Pktbb. "6. Washinotov.
"GSOBOB W. P. CUSTIS."
46 wama 09 .
secretary of war^ to inform him whether you do, or do not accept the appointment^ and in either case to request him to thank the president for the honor he has con- ferred on you in making ii^ Perhaps, as this acknowl- edgment will not be as prompt as might have been ex- pected from you and Gustis (for it was supposed that both of you were to be found at Mount Vernon), it would not be amiss if you were to add, that being on an excursion into the upper country is the cause of it. AU here, as I presume you will learn &om a more pleasing pen, are weU; I therefore shall only add, that I am, dear sir, your sincere Mend and affectionate uncle,
^GeO. WASfflNGTOir. "Mr. La.w. Lewis."
A few months after this, Washington wrote to his nephew, as follows, in reply to a letter firom the yoimg husband concerning a portion of the Mount Yemon es- tate. Little did any of the parties then suppose, that in less than three months, the hand that panned this letter would be paralyzed by death, and that the will written by that hand, would so soon call for executors : —
"Mount Vebnon, 20th September^ 1799.
^ Djbab Sir : Prom the moment Mrs. Washington and myself adopted the two youngest children of the late
* When, in the Bununer of 1798, long-pending difficnlttes with France seemed to be tending toward speedy war, the Congress authorized quite a huge standing army, and appointed Washington commander-in-chief, with General Alexander HamiiMn as his fltst Ueatenant Washington consented to aooqpt the i^pointment, <mlj on condition that General Hamilton should be acting commander-in-chief, unless cir- euBStanoet should make it necessary for the retired president to take the field. Many young men, especially of fiuniUes of levokitioBaiy Teterans, aspired to mili- tary honors at this time. Among others who received commissions, were those al- luded to in this letter, namely, Lawrence Lewis, Lawrence Washington, and €(eocge Washmgton Paike Gustis. They were never called to the field, as die storm of war passed by without bursting upon the land.
6E0BGE WA^HINQTON ^ARES CUSTIS. 47
•Mr. Custis^ it became my intention (if ihey smrived me and conducted themselveB to my satisfaction) to con- sider them in my will when I was about to make a dis- tribution of my property. This determination has un- dergone no diminution, but is strengthened by the con- nection one of them has formed with my family.
^ The expense at which I live, and the unproductive- ness of my estate, will not allow me to lessen my income while I remain in my present situation. On the con- trary, were it not for occasional supplies of money in payment for lands sold within the last four or five years, to the amoimt of upwards of fifty thousand dollars, I diould not be able to support the former without in- volving myself in debt and difficulties.
^ But as it has been understood from expressions occar sionally dropped from Nelly Custis, now your wife, that it is the wish of you both to settle in this neighborhood, contiguous to her friends, and as it would be inexpedient, as well as expensive, for you to make a purchase of land, when a measure which is in contemplation would place you on more eligible groimd, I shall inform you, that in the will which I have made, which I have by me, and have no disposition to alter, that the part of my Moimt Vernon tract, which lies north of the public road leading from the Gum spring to Colchester, containing about two thousand acres, with the Dogue-river farm, mill, and distillery, I have left you. Gray's heights is bequeathed to you and her jointly, if you incline to build on it, and few better ntes for a house than Gray's hill and that range, are to be found in this country or elsewhere.
*You may also have what is properly Dogue-run &rm, the mill, and distillery, on a just and equitable
48 MEMOm OF
rent; as also the lands belonging thereto, on a reason- able hire, either next year or the year following, it being necessary, in my opinion, that a young man should have objects of employment. Idleness is disreputable imder any circumstances, productive of no good, even when unaccompanied by vicious habits, and you might com- mence building as soon as you please, during the progress of which Mount Vernon might be made your home.
^^ You may conceive, that building before you have an absolute title to the land is hazardous. To obviate this, I shall only remark, that it is not likely any occurrence will happen, or any change take place that would alter my present intention (if the conduct of yourself and wife is such as to merit a continuance of it) ; but be this as it may, that you may proceed on sure ground with respect to the buildings, I will agree, and this letter shall be an evidence of it, that if hereafter I should find cause to make any other disposition of the property here men- tioned, I will pay the actual cost of such buildings to you or yours.
^ Although I have not the most distant idea that any event will happen that could effect a change in my present determination, nor any suspicions that you or Nelly could conduct yourselves in such a manner as to incur my serious displeasure, yet, at the same time, that I am inclined to do justice to others, it behooves me to take care of myself, by keeping the staff in my own hands.
^ That you may have a more perfect idea of the landed property I have bequeathed to you and Nelly in my will, I transmit a plan of it, every part of which is correctly laid down and accurately measured, showing the number
GEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE GUSTIS. 49
of fields, lots, meadows, &c^ with the contents, and rela- tive situation of each, all of which, except the mill and swamp, which has never been considered as a part of Dogue-run farm, and is retained merely for the purpose of putting it into a better state of improvement, you may have on the terms before-mentioned. With every kiod wish for you and Nelly, in which your aunt, who is still much indisposed, unites,
^ I remain your aflFectionate uncle,
"Geo. Washington. "Mr. Lawbenoe Lbwis."
"Mount Vernon, 28^ September, 1799. " My DEAR Sm : The enclosed letter was written agree- ably to date, and sent to the postoffice in Alexandria, but owing to an accident it missed the western mail, and was returned to me, since which, Mr. Anderson,* in part- nership with his son, John, has discovered an inclination to rent my distillery and mill. I am disposed to let them become the tenants, provided they will give a reasonable rent, and matters in other respects can be adjusted. The reasons are, that although Mr. Anderson is, in my opinion, an honest, sober, and industrious man, understands the management of the plough and the harrow, and how to make meadows, yet he is not a man of arrangement; he wants system and foresight in conducting the business ta advantage, is no economist in providing things, and takes little care of them when provided — when, to these de- fects in his character, are added, his acting too much from ihe impulse of the moment (which occasions too much doing and undoing), and his high wages and emolu- ments, I have no hesitation in declaring, that it is my
« Washington's steward. 4
50 MEMOIR OF
wish to place my estate in this county on a new estab- lishment^ thereby bringing it into so narrow a compass BB not only to supersede the necessity of a manager^ but to make £he management of what I retain in my own hands a healthy and agreeable amusement to look after myself, if I should not be again called in the public ser- vice of the country. As the old man is extremely obliging and zealous in my service, I am xmwilUng, by any act of mine to hurt his feelings, or by discarding him to lessen his respectability in the eyes of the public, but if it shoidd appear to be his own act^ both om* ends would be answered. I should be lessened so much of my general concerns, and if you take the Dogue-run farm (by odds the best and most productive I possess), I can, if I remain quiet at home, with great ease attend to the other three and the mansion-house, and thereby ease my- self of the expense of a manager. You will perceive by my letter of the 20th, herewith enclosed, that the lands therein mentioned are given for the express purpose of accommodating you in a building site, in which case I did not nor do I now see how you could do without the farm, which is part of the premises, or the hands thereon; and were it not for the reasons which apply to Mr. Anderson, the mill and distillery ought to accompany it as part of the same concern. I shall not go more into details at this time, as I hear from a letter to Nelly that you* may be expected shortly. Mr. Anderson, after I had written my letter of the 20th, hinted his desire of renting from me, and was informed I had made the offer to you, and until I received your answer I could say nothing deiSnitely to him on the subject, and so the matter remains. Mrs. Washington has not recovered
OEORGE WASHINGTON PAKEE CUSTIS. 61
her health, on the contrary, is at this time weak and low.
Mr. and Mrs. Peter (now here) and their children are
well We all unite in best wishes for you, Nelly, and
Mr. Carter's family. Yom* affectionate uncle,*
"George WAsmNoroN. •«Mr. Lawrence Lewis."
We have again been led into a digression on a relative subject Let us now pursue the Memoir to its termina- tion, without further interruption.
Before he had reached his eighteenth year, young
Custis was appointed a comet of horse in the army, as
appears by the following letter from the secretary of
war: —
**Wab Department, January 10«A, 1799.
''Sir: I have the honor to inform you, that the presi- dent, by and with the advice and consent of the senate, has appointed you a comet in the araay of the United States.
*^ You are requested to inform me as soon as conven- ientj whether you accept or not the appointment, that I may notify the same to the president.
^ To obviate misconception, it is proper to mention, that a want of materials having prevented a complete nomination and appointment of the whole number of officers for the troops to be raised, the president has thought it advisable to reserve the subject of their rela- tive rank for further arrangement
^1 am, sir, with respect, yom* obedient servant,
James M^Henrt. «*Mr. George W. P. Custis."
Mr. Custis was soon afterward promoted to the posi- tion of aid-de-camp to General Charles Cotesworth Pinck
52 MEMOm OF
neyy of South Carolina, with the rank of colonel. But he was never called into active service; and a few months afterward he was sorely bereaved by the death of his illuftrious foster-father. That event occurred on the fourteenth of December, 1799, and the adopted son became a prospective executor of that great man's will.* Mount Vernon continued to be his home until after the death of his grandmother, when he commenced the erec- tion of a beautifid mansion at Arlington, an estate of a thousand acres, left him by his father, and lying upon the west side of the Potomac, opposite Washington city. There he resided until his death. It is a most lovely spot, overlooking the Potomac ; and from the noble por- tico, that adorns its front, so conspicuous from every point of the federal city and its vicinity, he saw that city grow into its present grand proportions, from a humble and iminteresting village.
At the age of twenty-three, Mr. Custis married Mary Lee Fitzhugh, a lady whose many virtues endeared her to all who came within the circles of her in- fluence, and who will ever live in the memory of her friends. While the pen of filial affection may not be trusted in delineating a character so beloved, it
* In the last clause of his will, WashiDgton said : " I constitute and appoint my dearly beloved wife, Martha Washington, my nephews, William Augustine Washing- ton, Bushroil Washington, George Steptoe Washington, Samuel Washington, and Lawrence Lewis, and my ward, George Washington Parke Custis (when he shall have arrived at the age of twenty-one years), executrix and executors of this my last Will and Testament." The will was signed and sealed on the ninth of July, 1799. In it was the following clause : "I give and bequeath to George Washing- ton Parke Custis, the grandson of my wife, and my ward, and to his heirs, the tract I hold on Four-mile run, in the vicinity of Alexandria, containing one thousand and two hundred acres, more or less, and my entire square, No. 21, in the city of Wash- ington."
GEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE CU8TIS. 63
may be pardoned for transcribing the following testi- mony of a friend : —
*• To the Editors of the National Intelligencer :
" Savannah, Majf 16, 1853.
^ Gentlemen : Allow me from this distant city to place an humble wreath, bedewed with many tears, on the grave of the best of iBriends. Since no one living could do justice to the character of that eminent lady, whose decease has spread the gloom of night through all the halls of Arlington, tremblingly I shrink from the at- tempt to recall and trace out, even faintly, that most rare combination of virtues and graces which, as no modesty or humility could conceal, no language can adequately portray.
^ Happy in her descent from the union of Fitzhugh, of Chatham (the friend of Washington), a gentleman unsurpassed for dignity and courtesy of manners by any who enjoyed the society of Mount Vernon, with one of the most beautiful, accomplished, and religious ladies that ever bore the name of Randolph, all the in- structions and associations, the habits and studies of her childhood and youth, were suited to nurture those just principles and pure and generous sentiments which ever pervaded and adorned her entire character. Early al- lied by marriage to a gentleman bred up in Mount Ver- non while the spot was the home of the father of his country — a gentleman whose genius, taste, eloquence, and courtesy, have attracted multitudes from this and far distant lands to that mansion, where, alas, he now sits in sorrow and darkness — she dedicated herself to those gentle ofl&ces, quiet duties, and daily graceful ministries of love, so becoming to her station and her sex.
54 MEMOIB OF
^ Those who best knew this lamented lady will testify to a charming simplicity and sincerity, expressed in her aspect^ manners, and conversation, blended with a ma- jesty of goodness far surpassing the fairest creations of the painters or the poet's art Her clear and compre- hensive reason, ever submissive as a child to the teach- ings of its Author; her integrity never wavering and without guile ; the purity of all her motives and affec- tions ; the energy of piurpose with which she applied herself to duty, and that constant cheerfulness which made to her all duty pleasure, rendered her judgment on all moral questions well-nigh infallible, and gave se- renity, consistency, and incomparable beauty to her life. For a period of thirty years the writer recollects no in- stance in which this distinguished Christian lady erred in judgment on any question of taste, propriety, or duty: Her example was a lights never declining, and never eclipsed, which the wise could not hesitate to follow, nor less serious observers to feel and admire. She was fa- miliarly acquainted with the best English literature, and read much, though very careful to select works of un- blemished and established reputation, and confining her- self mainly, toward the close of her life, to books on practical religion and to Christian biography. But infi- nitely beyond all the writings of men she valued the word of God. This was her daily companion, study, and guide, and in the law of God was her meditation and delight all the day. She had a remarkably quick per- ception of beauty and sublimity in composition, art, or nature ; and whenever she discerned these qualities, joy lighted up her countenance with a radiance pure and gentle as that shed 'through the wmdows of a cathedral
GEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE CUSTIS. 55
from holy fire upon its altar. No member of the Pro- testant Episcopal churchy was more ardently attached to its solemn worship and communion^ while she embraced in her afiectionate regards the whole company of Christ's disciples, never doubting the unity of his kingdom, or that to his church there is but one Head, and though many members, but one Body.
^ Precious to her were all the services of the sanctu- ary. She loved its very gates; she entered them with joy and thanksgiving ; her soul was filled with reverence of the heavenly King in those sacred courts where his honor dwelleth. What disciple present with her in the house of God, what casual observer, what stranger, what child has not been instructed, felt his sold warmed by the manner, the fervor of her heart-penetrating devo- tion?
^ But how can I speak of her as she shone at home, and in the midst of her family and fiiends ? She was a guardian-angel to the objects of her love, and when she left them it was like the going down of the sun for ever. Joy was turned into heaviness, and songs into the voice of them that weep. The fresh flowers of spring seemed to loose their fragrance, to fade and become withered when ceased that beautiful life, more fragrant even in memory than the roses or precious odors, gums and spices of Cashmere, Ceylon, or ^ Araby the blest' Though her life was not short, as was said by Atterbury of Lady Cutts, ^her death was sudden; she was called in haste and without any warning ; one day she drooped and the next she died ; nor was there the difference of many hours between her being very easy in this world and very happy in another.' Her duties all discharged, the
56 MEMOm OF
cause of benevolence and religion^ aided by habitual and generous gifts and earnest prayers, her work all well done, her lamps well trimmed and brightly burning, she obeyed the summons. Truly was it said in that great hour, a ^ pm'er spirit never left this world for the man- sions of heaven/
"A volume would be insufficient to describe those in- numerable acts of courtesy, kindness, and beneficence which adorned and enobled the life of Mrs. Custis ; a life retired from general observation, but widely extended in the power of its influence, and, as we doubt not, in the importance of its results. We have read of Lady Russell, the magnanimous daughter of the good Earl of Southampton; of Mrs. Eamsay, the devout and judicious companion of the historian of South Carolina ; we have admired the fortitude and genius of Madame Roland; the mystical but sublime piety of Madame Guion, the charming grace and tenderness of Klopstock's wife, and many other touching portraits of female excellence; but in all the elements of a character to be loved, trusted, and imitated, a character to grow brighter by study and time, to be handed down with increasing hon- ors to future ages, and stand in serene beauty among the ruins of the world, we find none in the annals of female biography to surpass that of her on whose dust we lay this poor ofiering of a sad but gratefid heart"*
Mr. and Mrs. Custis had four children, all daughters, only one of whom (Mary Custis, wife of Colonel Robert E Lee of the United States army) survived the period of infancy. Upon her the fondest affections of both parents were centred. From her father she never
* Mn. CnstU died at Arlington on the 2dd of April, 1853.
GEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE CUSTIS. 57
received an unkind word. He was endowed with an even temper and remarkably buoyant spirit ; and tow- ard his family, his servants, his friends, and the world, there was a constant outflow of kindly feeling from his warm and generous heart
Identifying himself with the past, through the power of strong association, he scarcely seemed to live in the present, though deeply interested in the current events of the day. He exercised an unbounded hospltability, and loved to pour forth to his delighted auditors the treasures of his richly-stored mind and wonderful mem- ory. He had a happy faculty for expressing his thoughts by both pen and voice ; and this was exercised at a very early period of his life, as is indicated in the following letter from the eminent General Henry Lee, of the revo- lution, written to him early in the year 1800, when young Custis was not quite nineteen years of age : —
"PmLAD'A, leFeby " Dear Sir : Your polite note, accompanying your feel- ing address to the youth of America, was duly received. The perusal gave me much pleasure.
^ The sentiments which it breathes do honor to your heart ; and I ardently pray a similar spirit may pervade the rising generation throughout these states.
^ I wished to have sent the paper to the press here ; but, referring to your letter, I find no permission of that sort, and therefore have confined my communication of it to my own circle. With best wishes for your welfare,
I am your friend and obt servant,
"Henry Lee."
The address alluded to was on the subject of the death
58 MEMOIB OF
of Washington, and its eulogist had recently pronounced an admirable oration on the same subject^ before the fed- eral Congress, by invitation of that body.
Possessed of a quick and lively imagination, Mr. Custis sometimes employed a leisure hour in penning poetic effusions ; and on several occasions, at the earnest solici- tations of friends, he composed dramas, to be acted for a specific purpose. The following letter to his wife, jn re- lation to one of these efibrte, exhibits in a remarkable manner the facility with which he could put his thoughts into shape; and also the kindness of his nature. His wife was then on a visit to the family of the now vener- able Bishop Meade : —
"Arlwgton, 12 Septy, 1833.
*^My Dearest Wife: Your letter has been received, giving an accoimt of your pleasurable trip through Fau- quier, and safe arrival among your friends in Frederick. Your account of the appearance of the venerable Chief- Justice Marshall is particularly interesting. If you had written a little more in detail, I would have composed a fragment upon it, entitled ^A Scene in Fauquier' Dear, glorious old man! I wish he could lay his patriarchal hands upon our boy, and bless him. You know Lafay- ette's triumph in this country is attributed to his having received a blessing from the * mother/ on his departure, m 1784.
" I shall hear from my dear Mary and her boy to-day, and, if there is anything to communicate, I will write again in a day or two. K you do not hear from me in quick time, you may conclude all are well
^ Kemember me kindly and afiectionately to the good bishop, and the excellent people around you- Health
GEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE CUSTIS. 69
attend you, dearest wife ! Happiness I know you have wherever you are. ^ Write often, and believe me always yours, &c.,
«G. W. P. Cusm
<*P. S. — I have made a great mental effort lately, but I am sure you and the bishop will think my energies might have been better employed. I had promised the poor rogues of actors a play for the 12th Sept., the anni- versary of the battle of North Point ; but, finding myself not in the veiny I wrote to them to defer it On Monday, 9th, the manager came on from Baltimore, and entreated me to prepare something for the 12th, as it would put six or seven hundred dollars in his pocket. On Monday not a line was finished. At five o'clock I commenced, and wrote until twelve ; rose the next morning at five, and by seven sent off by the stages a two-act piece, with two songs and a finale, called North Pointy or Baltimore Defended^ the whole completed in nine hours. It is to be played to-night. To-morrow I shall hear of its suc- cess.
^The principal female character is called Marietta; runs away from her father, disguised as a rifle-boy, &c., &c.
"To Mrs. M. L. Custis,
^ Mountain View, near Millwood,
" Frederick county, Virginia."
Mr. Custis's private correspondence was written with much ease and grace, and always manifested the vivacity of his temperament. His letters to his family are of a character so purely domestic, that they would have no interest to the public. The following, having relation to another of his literary productions (which appears among the Re€oUections\ may with propriety be introduced here :
60 MEMOm OF
"Arlington, 19th July, 1838.
^ My Dearest Wife and Daughter : Your letter arrived yesterday. It is not in my power to go down to-day ; but if nothing occurs, and you remain in your present mind, I will go in the next boat for you, though I can only remain until the following Wednesday. God knows I can be nowhere happier than with my dear children and precious grandson ; and, again, the garrison and mili- tary matters, the sea-prospect, vessels, &c., all conspire to make a sojourn at the Point a most pleasurable thing to me ; but a hard necessity compels me to the constant su- perintendence of my affairs at home. I hope another year, if I make a tolerable sale of my lands in Stafford and Westmoreland, to be more prosperous.
^ I have been requested to write a short biography of my grandmother, to be accompanied by a splendid en- graving from one of my originals, for Longacre's work, called The National' GaMery of PortrmtSj and have consent- ed to do it. I have written nothing and painted scarcely anything, but have read all the time. I have not been on my farm ; go to bed exactly at ten, rise at six, break- fast at seven, and dine at two. I find myself often call- ing that darling boy in my reveries. Give him grandpa's kiss and blessing ; and that God may bless you all, prays your husband and father, • G. W. P. Custis.
"To Mrs. M. L. Custis,
" Old Point Comfort, Virginia.
^^P. S. — My Puss has returned, sadly beaten by wild- cats."
Mr. Custis's talent for oratory was brilliant ; and, had due attention been paid to its cultivation, he would doubt- less have ranked among the first in the land. His
GEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE CUSTIS. 61
speeches, upon many occasions^ would fill a volume. One of the earliest of those which have been preserved, was on the occasion of the ftmeral solemnities held at Georgetown, ill the District of Columbia, on the first of September, 1812, in honor of General James M. Lingan, a worthy soldier of the Revolution, who was killed by a political mob, in Baltimore, on the twenty-eighth of July, 1812. This funeral oration was extemporaneous.* Of it a contemporary said: "It riveted the attention of the audience. The solemn stillness which reigned was only interrupted by sighs and tears. We can compare the eloquence of Mr. Custis with nothing but the supposed eloquence of antiquity. His words possess the fire of Demosthenes, and his actions the grace of Cicero. Old warriors, who had almost forgotten how to weep, felt the stream of sympathy stealing down their furrowed cheeks, while their deep, scarred breasts heaved with convulsive sobs. Every period glowed with inspiration."
Not long after this (fifth of June, 1813), he was called to address a large audience at Georgetown, assembled to celebrate the then recent Russian victories over Napo- leon.-J- In that address Mr. Custis displayed, according to his contemporaries, some of the most noble characteris- tics of true oratory ; and it drew from the Russian min- ister at Washington the following letter : —
" WAsmNGTON, the 1th June, 1813.
^ Sm : In delivering your oration on the occasion of the celebration of the Russian victories, you have been guided by the motives of an enlightened and indepen- dent patriot. The subject of it could not fail to be high- ly interesting to every friend of humanity and virtue ; and you must have been highly gratified on perceiving
* See Note ii., p. 571. t See Note iii., p. 585.
62 ifEMom Of
the strong impression produced upon your respectable audience by the dignified, touching, and eloquent man- ner you presented it to their minds. You succeeded in making them fully sympathize with the distresses of my countrymen who have so bravely stemmed the homicidal hurricane raised from the revolutionary den of France, and made them magnanimously rejoice with us for hav- ing crushed the most impious attempt against our na- tional independence. You may imagine, sir, what effect it produced upon the hearts of those whose cradles have been burned with their beloved Moscow, and whose tears can only be assuaged by their enemy's blood.
" Perynit me to express to you my gratitude, that of my family, and of all my countrymen who shall peruse your oration, for the zeal and interest you have displayed in our cause ; and allow me to send you a small medal, with the likeness of Alexander the First, the only one which is now in my possession. I can not give you a greater token of the value I set on your acquaintance.
*^ I have the honor to be with the most sincere and high consideration,
^ Sir, your very hmnble and obedient servant^
"A, Daschkofp.
* P. S. — Yo\x would confer on me a great obligation, if you permit me to take a* copy of your oration (should it be not printed), which I would like to send to Russia by the first favorable opportunity."
Mr. Custis was often called upon to speak in public, at every period of his life, nor did age seem to diminish the ardor of his feelings. When in December, 1855, the Amoskeag Veterans of Manchester, New Hampshire,
QEOBQE WASHINGTON PARKE CUSTIS. 63
joined their Burviving companions in arms during the war of 1812, at Washington city, Mr. Custis was an honored guest among them. He accompanied them, and a large concourse of citizens, to Mount Vernon. The whole company went down from Washington city in steamers. On that occasion, Mr. Custis wore the epaulette which Washington placed upon his shoulder in 1798, as a comet of horse. ^At Alexandria,'' said the Washington Evening Star^ ^ a large concourse of citi- zens assembled who listened with gratification to the stirring strains of the band. Fort Washington was soon reached, and, landing to the tune of ^Yankee Doodle,' the party took possession of the stronghold, no sentinel appearing to challenge their right.
**As the boat approached the wharf at Mount Vernon, the band played the ^ Dead March in Saul,' but on land- ing, at the especial request of Mr. Custis, the solemn notes were changed into the more inspiring ^ Washing- ton's Grand March.' Ascending the hill the long column uncovered, and with reverential tread passed the hal- lowed spot —
^ * Where rest the ashes of the noblest man. That ever freeman mourned since time began ; Whose loflj virtues in no age surpassed, Have blessed our own age tind shall bless the last.'
** Coimtermarching, the battalion repaired to a level space near the tomb, where it was formed in hollow square, and ably addressed by Colonel Potter, who im- pressed on every mind the privilege in being permitted to gaze on the sacred place, where rest the remains of him, who was * first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrjonen.' He dwelt upon his virtues,
64 MEMOIR OF
remarking^ that he saw ^no north, no south, no east, no west.' He concluded by introducing the only siuriving member of the Washington family, G. W. P. Custis, Esq.
" Loud applause greeted Mr. Custis, who was listened to with deep attention, as he recalled his interesting re- miniscences of the illustrious owner of the locality near whose last resting-place they stood. It was an interest- ing scene to see this living relic of the past surrounded by the veterans, many of them near their laat campaign."*
At an early period he became much interested in the improvement of the breed of sheep. Colonel David Humphreys, American minister at Madrid, had recently introduced the fine-wooled Merino sheep into the United States. Mr. Custis saw the great advantages that his country might derive from the cultivation of fine wool, and the establishment of manufactories of cloth, and in 1803 he inaugurated an annual convention for the promotion of agriculture and domestic manufactures, known throughout the country by the title of " Arlington Sheep-Shearing." These gatherings were at Arlmgton spring, a large fountain of living waters that gushes from
* There is no copy of this speech to be found among the papeni of Mr. Casds. It vm doubtless the immediate and unpremeditated outpourings of his heart. Colonel Potter, in a letter to Mr. Lossiog, dated January 10, 1859, alluding to this speech, says: —
" This WAS among his best, if not the very best of his public speeches. It was on on interesting occasion, and his friends called it his happiest effort. I was in com- mand of the battalion of 'veterans,' and during our whole march from Manchester, N. H., to Mount Vernon, when the best speakers were in requisition at Worcester, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, I heard no speech that in matter and manner equalled his in true eloquence. Among the hundreds present there was not a dry eye. Men of iron, in my own corps, who probably had never wept since boy- hood, were overcome, and shed tears like boys, the drops standing upon their bronzed checks like dew in early morning. True, the time and place had its effect, but there was true eloquence in the speech itself."
GEORQE WASHmaiON PARKE CUSTIB. 65
beneath the shade of a venerable oak^ not far firom the banks of the Potomac. There, for many years, on the thirtieth of April, the annual shearing took place. A large concourse of people would assemble to partici- pate in or witness the ceremonies. Toasts were drank, speeches were made, and prizes, provided at the sole ex- pense of Mr. Custis, were distributed among those who presented the best specimens of sheep or wool, and do- mestic manufactures. These were the first prizes ever offered for such objects in America. Under the great war- tent of Washington, yet preserved at Arlington house, many of the noblest men of the land have assembled on these festivals, when they and the entire concourse were entertained in a most generous manner by the host> who usually made a stirring speech appropriate to the occasion. In one of them he said, prophetically : ^ America shall be great and free, and minister to her own wants by the employment of her own resources. The citizen of my country will proudly appear, when clothed in the pro- duce of his native soil." It must be remembered that> at that time, every yard of broadcloth worn in the United States was imported from Europe.
The following letters to Mr. Custis, from Mr. Madison (then secretary of state, and soon afterward president of the United States), possess an interest in this connec- tion:—
*^Mr. Madison has received Mr. Custis's note of the 30th ultimo, with the specimen of fine wool accompany- ing it He offers for himself the thanks to which Mr. Custis is entitled, from all his fellow-citizens, for his laud- able and encouraging efforts to increase and improve an animal which contributes a material so precious to the
5
66 MEMOm OF
independent comfort and prosperity of our country. Mr. Madison wishes that Mr. Custis may be amply grati- fied in the success of his improving experiments, and that his patriotic example may find as many followers as it merits. « Washinqton, Auffust 2, 180T."
^ I have been duly favored, dear sir, with yours of the 7th. NotAaving taken with me to Virginia a sample of the Smith's island wool, which you were so good as to furnish me, I can not judge of its merit by comparison with the fleeces in the part of the country where I dwell. I regret it the more, as I have always considered them as among the best in point of fineness, though not of weighty which the American flocks yield. It gives me pleasure to find your attention to this interesting subject does not relax, and that you are so successfully inviting to it other public^pirited gentlemen.
" I remain^ sir, with great respect and esteem,
" Your most obedient humble servant^
"James Madison.
« WAsmNOTON, October 10, 1807."
The beautiful flock of fine sheep upon the Arlington farm were preyed upon by thieves and dogs, imtil their number was reduced to two. These, in the language of the owner, "long ranged over the hills of Arlington in solitary state.*' Until the close of his life, Mr. Custis took great interest in agricultural affairs, and was for several years previous to that events an active member, and one of the vice-presidents of the United States Agri- cultural Society.
In the war of 1812, he served as a volunteer to oppose the British when they penetrated Marylandi
GEOBGE WASHINOTON PARKE CUSTI8. 67
and ascended the Potomac, to attack Washington city. He would never accept any pay for his services; and while assisting the veterans of that war in prosecuting their claims upon the government, he withdrew his own.
When Lafayette came to the United States, in 1824, as the guest of the nation, Mr. Custis was among those who met him at the federal capital as a personal Mend. Trae, his recollection of the illustrious Frenchman, while on his last visit to Mount Yemon in the autumn of 1784, was dim and shadowy, yet the son of that hero and bene- &ctor, who now accompanied him, and who bore the name of Geo&qe WAsmNGTON, had been the companion of his youthful days at Mount Vernon, when Lafayette was in exile.'*' Mr. Custis spent much time with the illustrious guest at Arlington and elsewhere. At the tomb of Washington, in the presence of a large number of per- sons, he presented Lafayette with a ring, in which was some of the hair of the Pater Patriae. The presentation was accompanied by some touching remarks, to which La&yette responded in the most feeling manner. An account of the proceedings on that occasion may be found in the Appendix.
After the departure of the illustrious guest from
• The following letter written by the younger Lafayette, whUe in this country, to Jfr. Cutis, is preserved among others, at Arlington : —
" Wabhinotoit Citt, January the third, 1825.
" Mt deab Custis : My father being able to dispose of himself on Wednesday, will do himself the pleasure of going that day to dine at Arlington. It is so long since I wished for that satis&ction myself, that I most sincerely rejoice at the anticipation of it. You know, my friend, how happy I was when we met at Baltimore. Since that day, I felt ereiy day more and more, how much our two hearts were calculated to understand each other. Be pleased, my dear Custis, to present my respectful homage to the ladies, and receire for yonnelf the expression of my most aifoctionate and brotherly sentiments.
" G. W. Lafatbttb."
68 BfESfom OF
America, Mr. Custis wrote and published a series of most entertaining articles, entitled, Conversations mth Lafayette, It was at that time that he conceived the design of committing to paper his own recollections of the private life of Washington, and the first of the series was published in the National Intelligencer in 1826.
One of the principal amusements of Mr. Custis*s later years, was painting revolutionary battle-scenes in which Washington participated. Upon these he worked witii the greatest enthusiasm. Considering the circmnstances under which they were produced — painted without being first composed or drawn in outline, by an entirely self- taught hand more than threescore and ten years old — they are remarkable. In general conception and group- ing, they are spirited and original. He was not disposed to devote the time and labor requisite to their careful execution, and therefore, as works of art merely, they have but little merit Their chief value lies in their truthfulness to history in the delineation of events, inci- dents, and costmnes. They are all at Arlington, six in number, namely, battles of Trenton^ PrwceUm^ German- tounij and Momnovthj WasMngtan at YorktQum, and the /Swr- render at Yorktoum.
For some weeks previous to his death, Mr. Custis com- plained of debility and depression of spirits ; but even then, he contemplated, with much pleasure, an excursion to the great West^ to attend the agricultural fair at Louisville. Unwillingly was he compelled to relinquish this design ; and only for four days did he occupy the bed fix)m which he never arose. His disease was pulmonary pneumonia. Fully impressed with the belief that he could not survive the attack, the terrors of death seemed
QBORQE WASHINGTON PARKE CUSTIS. 69
merciAiUy withdrawn, and with the gentleness and trust of a child did he await its approach. Regarding his daughter and her children who surrounded him, with touching affection, he often alluded to his ^ blessed wife," and her unceasing prayers for him. After a night of in- tense suffering and insensibility, he roused himself, and with that transient gleam of light that usually pre- cedes dissolution. Solemnly he embraced each member of his family, took leave of an old servant who attended in his room, requested his pastor to be summoned, to whom he avowed his belief and hope in the only atone- ment offered for sinners,' with clasped hands joined in the prayer for the dying, and then gently sunk to rest in the seventy-seventh year of his age.
Thus expired, on the 10th of October, 1857, the last male representative of his family — thus was broken for ever a link between the illustrious Father of his Country and the present generation.
"Falida mors a'qao pnlsat pede pauperam tabernas, Begam-qae torres."
The funeral of Mr. Custis took place at Arlington on the 12th. ^ As was anticipated," said the National Intel- ligencer, ^ the solemn event convened a numerous con- course of friends who had long been associated with the venerable man, and who had enjoyed many pleasing hours in listening to and witnessing the feelings of genu- ine patriotism which inspired him, as he related familiar incidents in the life and character of the illustrious
WASfflNGTON.
^ Besides the family and their particular friends, ofl&cers of the army and navy, distinguished gentlemen of the legal profession, residents of Washington, Georgetown,
70 M£MOm 09
and Alexandria, as well as the neighbors of the deceased for many miles aromid, thronged the parlors and halls.
^' Mount Vernon Guards of Alexandria^' the 'Associ- ation of the Survivors of the War of 1812 of the Dis- trict of Columbia^' a delegation of the 'Jamestown So- ciety of the District^' field and staff officers of the volun- teer-regiment^ and the Washington light-infantry, with their banners and fine martial music, and a delegation of the officers of the President's moimted guard, all travelled a distance of six miles to unite in the solemn testimonials of respect
^ The pall-bearers appointed were, William W. Seaton, Philip R Fendall, Cassius F. Lee, Bushrod W. Hunter, Henry Dangerfield, and William B. Bandolph.
^ The religious services were conducted in an impres- sive manner by the Rev. C. B. Dana, of Christ church, Alexandria, according to the usages of Hie Protestant Episcopal church.
^ The interment took place in a beautiM grove a short distance from the mansion, after which all retired in silence. The occasion awakened touching reminiscences of many pleasant days spent at the celebrated ^ Spring of Arlington.'"*
* The Arlington spring already mentioned, as the place of the annual sheep- shearing, was, for many years, a point of great resort for picnic-parties ftom Wash* ingtonjGeorgetowOi and Alexandria; and a small boat, used for conveying parties thither, was named " G. W. P. Custib." It was estimated that at some seasons, from fifteen to twenty thousand people yisited the spring on sach occasions. Around the spring is a beautiful shaded lawn ; and the generous proprietor, erer ready to give happiness to others, erected a wharf for the public accommodation, a store- room, kitchen, dining-hall sixty feet in length, and a saloon of the same dimensions for dancing in. No spiritous liquors were permitted to be sold there, and visiters were not allowed there on the sabbath. All that he asked in return, was good be- havior, and a reciprocation of the kind feeling which made every class of respectable
dtizens cordially welcome.
•
GEOBQE WABHINQTON PARKE CUSTIS. 71
The death of Mr. Custis produced a marked sensation throughout the country. He was universally known, beloved, and honored, as the " child of Mount Vernon f and everywhere the press paid the tribute of most pro- found respect to his memory, " For several years," said the National Intelligencer, in noticing his death, ^ he had stood alone in his relations to the Father of his Country, ever anxious, with filial reverence and affection, to illus- trate his character, and from the rich stores of his never- failing memory, to bring forward an annual tribute to his immortal worth. Known and honored by his fellow- countrymen, his departure will awaken maiversally a profbimd regret.
^Bom amid the great events of the Revolution, by the death of his father (Colonel Custis, of tlie army, and a son of Mrs. Washington by a former marriage), which occurred near the close of the war, he found his home during childhood and youth at Mount Vernon, where his manners were formed after the noblest models ; and from the great worthies of that period, frequent guests there, he received impressions of wisdom and patriotism that were never effaced Under the counsels of Washington he pmrsued his classical studies at Princeton, and when deprived by death of his great guide and father (and soon after of his revered grandmother), he devoted him- self to literary and agricultural pursuits on his ample estate of Arlington.
^Mr. Custis was distinguished by an original genius for eloquence, poetry, and the fine arts j by a knowledge of history, particularly the history of this country ; for great powers of conversation, for an ever-ready and gen- erous hospitality, for kindness to the poor, for patriotism,
72 MEMOm OF GEORGE WASHINGTON PARKE CU8TIS.
for constancy of fiiendship, and for a more than filial devotion to the memory and character of Washington, His early speeches on the death of General Lingan and the overthrow of Napoleon were everywhere read and admired, even by those who dissented fipom the senti- ments, for the beauty of their conception and their impassioned eloquence. Those familiar with the columns of this journal will not forget how largely we, and the country, are indebted to the warm and everKjheerful spirit of the deceased for many invaluable reminiscences of Eevolutionary history, of the distinguished men of those times, and especially of the private life of their glorious chief in the retirement of the shades of his home at Mount Yemon.
^ Thousands from this country, and from foreign lands, who have visited Arlington to commune with our de- parted friend, and look upon the touching memorials there treasured up with care, of him who was first in the hearts of his countrymen, will not forget the charm thrown over all by the ease, grace, interest, and vivacity of the manners and conversation of him whose voice, alas ! is silent now. The multitudes of our fellow-citi- zens accustomed, in the heat of summer, to resort to the shades of ArUngton, will hereafter miss that old man eloquent, who ever extended to them a warm-hearted welcome and became partaker of their joy."
In stature, Mr. Custis was of medium height, and weU« formed; his complexion fair and somewhat florid; hi* eyes light and expressive of great kindliness of nature 3 his voice full, rich, and melodious ; his deportment grace- ful and winning ; his courtesy to strangers extremely cor* dial ; and his afiection for his friends, warm and abiding.
CORRESPONDENCE
BETWEEN
WASHINGTON AND CUSTIS.
Philadelphia, 15th Ifiwemher, 1796.
Dear Washington : Yesterday's mail brought me yomr letter of the 12th instant^ and under cover of this letter you will receive a ten-dollar bill, to purchase a gown, &c., if proper. But as the classes may be distinguished by a different insignia^ I advise you not to provide these with- out first obtaining the approbation of your tutors; other- wise you may be distinguished more by folly, than by the dress.*
It affords me pleasure to hear that you are agreeably fixed; and I receive still more firom the assurance .you give of attending closely to your studies. It is you yourself who is to derive immediate benefit fi:om these. Your coimtry may do it hereafter. The more knowl- edge you acquire, the greater will be the probability of your succeeding in both, and the greater will be your thirst for more.
I rejoice to hear you went through your examination
* Yonng Cnfltis, was a stndent in Fjdncetoa college, New Jeraey, at that time, and Washington, then president of the United States, was residing in Philadelphia^ fliat being the federal dtj.
74 CORBESPONDENGE BETWEEN
with propriety, and have no doubt but that the president has placed you in the class which he conceived best adapted to the present state of your improvement The more there are above you, the greater your exertions should be to ascend ; but let your promotion result from your own application, and from intrinsic merit, not from the labors of others. The last would prove fallacious, and expose you to the reproach of the daw in borrowed feathers. This would b^ inexcusable in you, because there is no occasion for it; forasmuch, as you need nothing but the exertion of the talents you possess, with proper directions, to acquire all that is necessary ; and the hours allotted for study, if properly improved, will enable you to do this. Although the confinement may feel irksome at first, the advantages resulting from it^ to a refiecting mind, will soon overcome it
Endeavor to conciliate the good will of a^ your fellow- students, rendering them every act of kindness in your power. Be particularly obliging and attentive to your chamber-mate, Mr. Forsyth; who, fix)m the account I have of him, is an admirable young man, and strongly impressed with the importance of a liberal and finished education. But above all, be obedient to your tutors, and in a particular manner respect the president of the seminary, who is both learned and good.
For any particular advantages you may derive from the attention and aid of Mr. Forsyth, I shall have a dis- position to reward. One thing more and I will close this letter. Never let an indigent person ask, without re- ceiving sometMngy if you have the means ; always recol- lecting in what light the widow's mite was viewed.
Tour grandmother, sister, and aU here are well, and
WiASHINGTON AND OUBTIS. 75
feeling a strong interest in your welfare, join most cordi-
afly with me in every good wish for it
Affectionately,
I am your sincere Mend,
6. Washington. Mr. Geo. Wasbingtov Parke Custis.
PmLADELPHiA, 2Sth November, 1796.
Dear WAsmNGTON : In a few hasty lines, covering your sister's letter and a comb, on Saturday last, I promised to write more fully to you by the post of this day. I am now in the act of performing that promise.
The assurances you give me of applying diligently to your studies, and fdlfiUing those obligations which are enjoined by your Creator and due to his creatures, are highly pleasing and satisfactory to me. I rejoice in it on two accounts ; first, as it is the sure means of laying the foundation of your own happiness, and rendering you, if it should please God to spare your life, a useful member of society hereafter ; and secondly, that I may, if I live to enjoy the pleasure, reflect that I have been, in some degree, instrumental in efiecting these purposes.
You are now extending into that stage of life when good or bad habits are formed. When the mind will be turned to things useful and praiseworthy, or to dissipa- tion and vice. Fix on whichever it may, it will stick by you ; for you know it has been said, and truly, " that as the twig is bent so it will grow.** This, in a strong point of view, shows the propriety of letting your inexperience be directed by maturer advice, and in placing guard upon the avenues which lead to idleness and vice. The latter will approach like a thie^ working upon your passions ; encouraged, perhaps, by bad examples; the propensity
76 CORBESPONDENCE BETWEEN
to which will increase in proportion to the practice of it and your yielding. This admonition proceeds from the purest affection for you ; but I do not mean by it^ that you are to become a stoic, or to deprive yourself in the intervals of study of any recreations or manly exercise which reason approves.
'Tis well to be on good terms with all your fellow- students, and I am pleased to hear you are so, but while a courteous behavior is due to all, select the most de- serving only for your friendships, and before this becomes intimate, weigh their dispositions and character toeU. True friendship is a plant of slow growth ; to* be sincere, there must be a congeniality of temper and pursuits. Virtue and vice can not be allied ; nor can idleness and industry ; of course, if you resolve to adhere to the two former of these extremes, an intimacy with those who incline to the latter of them, would be extremely embar- rassing to you ; it would be a stmnbling-block in your way, and act like a millstone hung to your neck, for it is the nature of idleness and vice to obtain as many votaries as they can.
I would guard you, too, against imbibing hasty and unfavorable impressions of any one. Let your judgment always balance well, before you decide ; and even then, where there is no occasion for expressing an opinion, it is best to be silent, for there is nothing more certain than that it is at all times more easy to make enemies than friends. And besides, to speak evil of any one, un- less there is unequivocal proofs of their deserving it> is an injiuy for which there is no adequate reparation. For, as Shakespeare says, " He that robs me of my good name enriches not himself^ but renders me poor indeed,"
WASHINGTON AND CUSHS. 77
or words to that effect Keep in mind that scarcely any change would be agreeable to you at first firom the sud- den transition, and firom never having been accustomed to shift or rough it And, moreover, that if you meet with coUegiate fere, it will be unmanly to complain. My paper reminds me it is time to conclude. Affectionately,
Your sincere fiiend,
G. WASfflNQTON.
P. S. — I presume you received my letter covering a ten-dollar bill to pay for your gown, although it is not mentioned.' To acknowledge the receipt of letters is al- ways proper, to remove doubts of their miscarriage.
PmLADELPHiA, 19/A December, 1796. Deab WASfflNOTON: I am not certain whether I have written to you since the receipt of your letter of the first instant, for, as my private letters are generally despatched in a hurry, and copies not often taken, I have nothing to resort to, to refiresh my memory ; be this, however, as it may, we are always glad to hear firom you, though wo do not wish that letter-writing should interfere with your more useful and profitable occupations. The pleasure of hearing you were well, in good spirits, and progressing as we could wish in your studies, was communicated by your letter of the fourteenth instant, to your grandmamma; but what gave me particular satisfaction, was to find that you were going to commence, or had commenced a course of reading with Doctor Smith,* of such books as he
* Samael Stanhope Smith, then president of Princeton college, was a distingaiah- ed Presbyterian clergyman. He was bom at Peqnea, Pennsylrania, in March, 1 750 ; was educated at his fother's academy ; entered Princeton college when in his six- teenth year; took the degree of bachelor of arts in 1769, when he was graduated;
78 OOBBBBFONDEHCaS BBTIVXBN
had chosen for the purpose. The first is very desirablQ, the other mdispensable ; for, besides the duty enjoined upon you by the instructions of your preceptors, whilst your own judgment is locked up in immaturity ; you now have a peculiar advantage in the attentions of Doctor Smith to you, who, being a man of learning and taste himself will select such authors and subjects, as will lay the foundation of useful knowledge ; let me impress it upon you, therefore, again and again, not only to jdeld implicit obedience to his choice and instructions in this respect, but to the course of studies also, and that you would pursue both with zeal and steadiness. Light reading (by this, I mean books of little importance) may amuse for the moment, but leaves nothing solid behind.
The same consequences would follow fixmi inconstancy and want of steadiness — for 'tis to close application and constant perseverance, men of letters and science are in- debted for their knowledge and usefulness ; and you are now at that period of life (as I have observed to you in a former letter) when these are to be acquired, or lost for ever. But as you are well acquainted with my sentiments on this subject, and know how anxious all your fiiends are
and looD afterward became a tutor in the college. There he remained two yean, studying theology at the same time, when he became a licensed minister, and entered upon missionary labors in the western counties of Virginia. He was very popular, and was selected to preside over the new college of Hampden Sidney, in FHnce Ed- ward connty, Virginia. He was chosen professor of moral philosophy in Princeton college, in 1779 ; and after laboring successfully for several years as vice-president, to build up the college, and as a clergymen for the interests of the Presbyterian church, he was chosen, in 1795, president of the college, in place of Doctor Withenpoon, who had died the preceding year. Bl health compelled him to relinquish his charge, in 1812, and in August, 1819, be died, at the age of nearly seventy years. Doctor Smith was distinguished for his great goodness, thorough scholarship, polished man- ners, eloquence as a preacher, and elegance and perspicuity as a writer.
WASHINGTON AND CTSTK. 79
to see you enter upon the grand theatre of life, with the advantages of a finished education, a highly cidtivated mind, and a proper sense of your duties to God and man, I shall only add one sentiment more before I close this letter (which, as I have others to write, will hardly be in time for the mail), and that is, to pay due respect and obedience to your tutors, and affectionate reverence to the president of the college, whose character merits your highest regards. Let no bad example, for such is to be met in all seminaries, have an improper influence upon your conduct. Let this be such, and let it be your pride, to demean yourself in such a manner as to obtam the good will of your superiors, and the love of your fellow-students.
Adieu — I sincerely wish you well, being your attached and affectionate friend,
G. WASfflNGTON. To Mb. Geo. .Washington Custis.
PmLADELPmA, 11/A January^ 1797. Dear Washington: I hasten to acknowledge the re- ceipt of your letter, dated the 7th instant^ but which did not get to my hands until yesterday, and to express to you the sincere pleasure I feel in finding that I had in- terpreted some parts of your letters erroneously. As you have the best and most unequivocal evidence the case is susceptible o^ that I have no other object in view by extending my cares and advice to you than what will redound to your own respectability, honor, and future happiness in life, so be assured, that while you give me reasons to expect a ready submission to my counsels, and while I hear that you are diligent in pursuing the means which are to acquire these advantages, it will afford me
80 COBRESPONPMCE BETWEEN
infiiiite gratification. Your last letter is replete with assurances of this nature — I place entire confidence in them. They have removed all the doubts which were expressed in my last letter to you, and let me repeat it again, have conveyed very pleasing sensations to my mind.
It was not my wish to check your correspondences — very far fi'om it; for with proper characters (and none surely can be more desirable than with your papa and Mr. Lear), and on proper subjects, it will give you a habit of expressing your ideas upon dU occasums with facility and correctness. I meant no more, by telling you we should be content with hearing from you once a week, than that these correspondences were not to be considered as an injunction or an imposition, thereby in- terfering with your studies or concerns of a more im- portant nature. So far am I from discountenancing writing of any kind (except upon the principle above- mentioned), that I should be pleased to hear, and you yourself might derive advantages jfrom a short diary (recorded in a book) of the occurrences which happen to you within your sphere. . Trifling as this may appear at first view, it may become an introduction to more in- teresting matters. At any rate, by careftilly preserving these, it would afford you more satisfaction in a retro- spective view, than what you may conceive at present
Another thing I woidd recommend to you — not be- cause J want to know how yaw spend your money — and that is, to keep an account-book, and enter therein every farthing of your receipts and expenditures. The doing of which woidd initiate you into a habit, jfrom which con- siderable advantages would residt Where no account
WASHINGTON AND CUBTK. 81
of this sort is kept, there can be no investigation ; no cor- rection of errors ; no discovery jBrom a recurrence thereto, wherein too much, or too little, has been appropriated to particular uses. From an early attention to tiiese mat- ters, important and lasting benefits may follow.
We are all well, and all unite in best wishes for you j and with sincere affection I am always yours,
G. WASBJNQTOJSf^ Mr. G. Washington Custis.
Nassau Hall, 25th Marchy 1797, Dearest Sir : A letter from my sister this morning, in- formed me of your safe arrival at Mount Vernon, the ignorance of which event has hitherto prevented me from writing. I congratulate you on a thing so ardently wished for by all those interested in your welfare. Tte marks of approbation and esteem manifested in the man- ner of the different states through which you passed, must have have been highly gratifying, and the pleasure felt on reaching the destined haven must have rendered your happiness complete.
The different studies I have passed through dining the winter, I am now reviewing ; and the evident good effects resulting from an attention to them at first, are now conspicuous. The examination will come on in a fortnight^ and immediately after the vacation will com- mence. The money you were so kind as to transmit for my expenses, I shall receive at my departure, and keep, regular accounts of all expenditures. I shall start the. next day, and pass through Philadelphia without stop- ping, so that I can have twenty days to stay at home ;• my anxiety to attain this end will preponderate against all other considerations. The Roman history I have.
6
82 OORBESPONDENOE BETWBEN
read, reviewed, and am perfect in. The translating French has become quite familiar, and th^ great amount of writing attending this exercise has improved my hand. I have read a great many good authors this winter, and have particidarly studied Hume ; have obtained a tolerable idea of geography, and, sir, in justice to myself and my own endeavors, I think I have spent my time in a man- ner not to be complained of I m\ist confess I have not made so much progress in arithmetic as I ought, owing to a variety of circumstances, and the superficial man- ner in which I imbibed the first principles ; but in the ensuing summer I shall make up the deficiency, and then hope I shall have nothing to regret I^ sir, by remain- ing in Philadelphia I could serve you in any way, I will do so with pleasure. For myself, I have no desire to' delay a moment I conclude, by wishing you all health and happiness. Bemember me to all the family, and be- lieve me sincerely yours, G. W. P. Custis. Gbobgb WAsmNGTON, Esq.
Mount Vernon, Sd April, 1797.
Dear WAsmNOTON : Your letter of the 25th ultimo has been duly received, and as your grandmamma or sister ^vill write to you by this post, I shall leave it to them to furnish you with the details of our joimiey, and the occurrences since owe arrival.
It gives me singular pleasure to hear that your time has been so well employed during the last winter, and that you are so sensible of the good effects of it yourself If your improvement in other matters is equal to that which is visible in your writing, it can not but be pleas- ing to your friends ; for the change there, both in the characters and diction is considerably for the better. A
WA8HINQT0N AMD CUBHS. 83
perseverance in such a course will redound much to your own benefit and reputation, and will make you at all times a welcome guest at Mount Yemon.
I have nothing to do in which you could be usefully employed in Philadelphia^ and approve your determin- ation to delay no time at that or any other place on the road, that you may have the more of it to spend among your friends in this quarter, who are very anxious to see you.
We are all in a litter and dirt^ occasioned by joiners, masons, and painters, working in the house, all parts of which, as well as the out-buildings, I find upon examin- ation, to be exceedingly out of repairs.
I am always and afiectionately yours,
G. WASfflNGTON.
The following letter, as evincing General Washington's deep solicitude for his adopted son, is here inserted, al- though the occasion that called it forth is unknown, the letter of Dr. Smith not being found among the corre- spondence : —
Mount Vebnon, 2ith May^ 1797.
Reverend and dear Sm : Your favor of the 18th instant was received by the last post, the contents of which, relative to Mr. Custis, filled my mind (as you naturally supposed it would) with extreme disquietude. From his infancy I have discovered an almost unconquerable dis- position to indolence in everything that did not tend to his amusements; and have exhorted him in the most parental and friendly manner often, to devote his time to more useful pursuits. His pride has been stimulated, and his family expectations and wishes have been urged as
84 OORRESPONBMGE BETWEEN
inducements thereto. In shorty I could say nothing to him now by way of admonition, encoiuragement, or ad- vice, that has not been repeated over and over again.
It is my earnest desire to keep him to his studies as long as I am able, as well on account of the benefits he will derive from them, as for the purpose of excluding him from the company of idle and dissipated young men imtil his judgment is more matured.
I can but thank you, sir, for your exertions to remove the error of his present thoughts, and I shall hope for your further endeavors to effect it If you find, however, that the attempt will be in vain, I shall rely on your judgment to employ his time in such studies as you con- ceive will be most advantageous to him during his con- tinuance with you, and I know of none more likely to prove so than those you have suggested, if his term at college will close with the next vacation. Witii very great esteem and regard, I am, reverend sir.
Tour most obedient and very humble servant^
G. WASfflNGTON. The Reverend Doctor S. Smith.
Several letters must have been destroyed, as ihe * error" referred to by Washington is not explained. If we may judge from the following letter, it vreiBfarffwen.
Nassau Hall, 29th May^ 1797. Deabest Sm : Words can not express my present sen- sations ; a heart overflowing with joy at the success of conscience over disposition is all I have to give. Dearest sir, did you but know the effect your letter has produced it would give you as consummate pleasure as my former one did pain. My very soul, tortured with the stings of
WASHINOTON AND CUSTIS. 85
conscience, at length called reason to its aid, and happily for me triumphed That I shall ever recompense you for the trouble I have occasioned, is beyond my hopes. However, I will now make a grand exertion, and show you that your grandson shall once more deserve your favor. Could you but see how happy I now am, you would soon forget all that is past, and let my future con- duct prove the truth of my assertions. Good God, how just your letter ! but, alas, we are poor weak creatures, and never believe what we do not feel. Could I hope this would restore your peace of mind my happiness would be complete. My time appears to me now too short I shall seize the present moments, and God grant I may be a pleasure to my fiiends, family, and self. I can not say too much on this subject^ I wait for your letter which I can already read. That I have abused such goodness is shocking, that I shall ever do so again I will risk my life. Confiding, dearest sir, in your equity and fatherly affection, I subscribe myself, with the sin-
cerest and most heartfelt joy,
G. W. R CusTis.
Mount Ybbnon, 44h June, 1797. YouE letter of the 29th ultuno, came to hand by the post of Friday, and eased my mind of many unpleasant sensations and reflections on your account It has, in- deed, done more, it has filled it with pleasure more easy to be conceived than expressed j and if your sorrow and repentance for the disquietude occasioned by the preced- ing letter, your resolution to abandon the ideas which were therein expressed, are sincere, I shall not only heartily forgive, but will forget also, and bury in ob- livion all that has passed.
86 CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN
As a testimony of my disposition to do this — of the hope I had conceived that reflection would overcome an indolent habit or bad advice — not a hint respecting this matter has been given to any of your fiiends in this quarter, although Doctor Stuart* and your mother (with their children) left this on Thursday last, after a stay of a week, and both Mr. Law and Mr. Peter have been here since the receipt of it. In a word, your grandmamma, sister, and myself, are all who were acquainted there- with.
You must not suffer the resolution you have recently entered into, to operate as the mere residt of a moment- ary impulse, occasioned by the letters you have received from hence. This resolution should be founded on sober reflection, and a thorough conviction of your error, other- wise it will be as wavering as the wind, and become the sport of conflicting passions, which will occasion such a lassitude in your exertions as to render your studies of little avail. To insure permanency, think seriously of the advantages which are to be derived, on the one hand, from the steady pursuit of a coiu^e of study to be marked out by your preceptor, whose judgment, experience, and acknowledged abilities, enables him to direct them ; and, on the other hand, revolve as seriously on the conse- quences which would inevitably result from an indispo- sition to this measure, or from an idle habit of hankering after unprofitable amusements at your time of life, before you have acquired that knowledge which would be found beneficial in every situation; I say lefore^ because it is not my wish that, having gone through the essentials, you should be deprived of any rational amusement afterward;
* Doctor Stnart married young Cnstis's mother not long after her husband's death.
WASHmOTON AND CUSTIS. 87
or, lastly, from dissipation in such company as you would most likely meet under such circumstances, who, but too often, mistake ribaldry for wit and rioting, swearing, in- toxication, and gambling, for manliness.
These things are not without momentary charms to young minds susceptible of any .impression, before the judgment in some measure is formed, and reason begins to preponderate. It is on this ground, as well as on ac- coimt of the intrinsic advantages that you yourself would experience hereafter from it, that I am desirous of keep- ing you to your studies. And if such characters as I have described shoidd be found instrumental, either by their advice or example, in giving your mind a wrong bias, shun them as you would a pestilence ; for, be assured, it is not with such qualities as these you ought to be allied, or with those who possess them to have any friendship.
These sentiments are dictated by the purest regard for your welfare, and from an earnest desire to promote your irtie happiness, in which all your friends feel an interest, and would be much gratified to see accomplished, while it would contribute in an eminent degree to your re- spectabihty in the eyes of others.
Your endeavors to fulfiill these reasonable wishes of ours can not fail of restoring all the attentions, protect tion, and aflFection, of one who ever has been, and will continue to be, your sincere friend,
G. WASfflNOTON. Mr. George W. P. Cdstis.
Nassau Hall, June Sth, 1797. WrcH a heart overflowing with gratitude, love, and joy, I retinm you thanks for your favor of the 4th ultimo, and
88 OOBKESPONPENGE BSTWEEK
could my words do justice to my feelings^ I would paint them in their highest tints, but words communicate ideas not sensations. Your letter, fraught with what reason, prudence, and affection, only can dictate, is engraven on my mind, and has taken root in a soil which I shall cul- tivate, and which, I hope, may become fruitful ; and, dear sir, while I look up to that Providence which has pre- served me in my late contest with my passions, and en- abled me to act in a way which will redound to my honor, permit me to make this humble confession, that if in any way, or by any means, I depart jfrom yoiu: direction and guardianship, I may suffer as such imprudence shall deserve. That your letter and the directions contained therein, were from the purest motives, I can not doubt for one moment, as they are from one to whom I have looked foi support on earth, and from whom I have ex- perienced the most unbounded generosity. During my recess from college I was not idle, having with Doctor Smith studied the use of the globes, and got a tolerable insight into geography. We shall pursue, this summer privately, Priestley's Elements of Natural History, and Smith's Constitution. I have, at length, attained a room to myself, and shall take for a room-mate a Mr. Cassius Lee, son of Richard Henry Lee, a young man lately ar- rived from the eastward, where he has been pursuing his studies privately. He is of an amiable disposition, and very well informed. I shall have an opportunity of giving you better information about him when he has resided with me some time, as yet he is perfectly agree- able and very engaging. My class are now studying the Roman History, with which I am well acquainted, having previously studied it with the doctor. The things you
WA8HIN0T0N AND CV&IIB. 89
commissioned me to get I have provided, and suppose you have the accounts now for adjustment They are perfectly suitable, and I hope reasonable. I will now conclude, with expressing, what I have always had near- est my hearty a desire of your esteem. Be assured naught shall be wanting on my part to obtain the same ; and that Hie great Parent of the universe may prolong your days, is the sincere prayer of your ever affectionate,
G. W. P. CusTia
Nassau Hall, July Utj 1797.
Dearest Sir : Since my last, nothing material has oc- curred ; the weather is excessively sultry, the thermom- eter being generally at 98°, which makes study and con- finement very disagreeable. I have much time to read, which I shall employ to that end, and am studying Priest- ley's Lectures on History, with the doctor, and reading Smollett and Hume by myself.
We shall commence geography the middle of this month, and devote the remainder of the session to that alone. I have studied the use of the globes and maps during my recess from college. •
I have written to my old private tutor to solicit his correspondence, and have received a letter from bim ex- pressing his approbation of the measure.
The fourth of July will be celebrated with all possible magnificence ; the college will be illuminated and cannon fired ; a ball will be held at the tavern in the evening, which I shall not attend, as I do not consider it con- sistent Ynth proprie^.
Mr. Cassius Lee, the gentlemen I informed you I had taken as a room-mate, is a remarkably moral and modest young man. I have no doubt we shall live happily to-
90 OOBBEBPONDENCE BETWEEN
gether. He is a son of Richard H. Lee, and brother to Ludwell. My room is fitted up very neatly and comfort- ably, though when the senior class leave college, I may almost have my choice.
Mr. Burwell called on his way to Boston, and informed me you were not very well. I sincerely hope it pro- ceeded merely from cold or fatigue, and will not produce unpleasant consequences.
I now conclude, wishing you health and all the happi- ness this world can afford. Be assured I remain, Most sincerely,
Your affectionate,
G. W. P. CusTis.
P. S. — Mr. Lee's respectfid compliments wait on you, sir. He is happy to inform you he left your nephew well at Andover, Massachusetts.
To George WAsmNGXON, Esq.
Mount Vernon, lOtk July, 1797.
Dear Washington : Your letter of the first instant was received by the last mail (on Friday), and your other letter, of the *eighth of June, remains imacknowledged, owing principally to engagements without doors in my harvest fields, and to company within, for we have scarcely been alone a day for more than a month, and now have a house full, among whom are your sisters. Law and Peter.
To hear you are in good health, and progressing well in your studies, affords peculiar satisfaction to your friends, and to none more than myself j as it is my earnest desire that you should be accomplished in all the useful and polite branches of literature.
To correspond with men of letters, can not fail of
WASHINQTON AND CUSTIS. 91
being serviceable to you, provided it does not interfere with your more important duties, and to hear their sen- timents on particular points may not be amiss ; but you are not to forget that your course of studies is under the direction of Dr. Smith, who is, at least, equal to any you can correspond with ; who knows what you have learned, and what is necessary for you to learn, to be system- atical. I enjoin it . strongly upon you, therefore, not to suffer any opinion or advice of Mr. Z. Lewis, however well meant they may be, to divert you from the prose- cution of any plan which may be marked out by Dr. Smith, or to produce the least hesitation in your mind, for no good can come of it, and much evU may.
It gives me much pleasure to hear that you have got a chamber-mate that is agreeable to you. We hope he will continue to be so, for your mutual satisfaction and benefit
The weather has not been intensely hot with us ; at no time this summer has the mercury exceeded 90°, and but once, and this was on the twenty-fourth of June, has it been so high.
If it has been usual for the students of Nassau college to go to the balls on the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, I see no reason why you should have avoided it, as no innocent amusement or reasonable ex- penditure will ever be withheld fix)m you.
I take it for granted, that your grandmamma and sister Nelly (if no more of the family) are writing to you, and as they detail more than I can the domestic news, I will only subscribe myself.
Your affectionate, Geo. WASfflNGTON.
To Mb- 6, W. P. Cu8Ti8.
92 COBfi£BPOND£NCS BSTWEBK
Nabsau Hall, /u^ lith, 1797.
Most Honored Sm: I have just received your kind favor of the tenth ultimo, together with the enclosed, for all of which accept my thanks. I congratulate you upon the enjoyment of your health and prospects of future felicity, which that you may attain and experience is my fervent prayer.
The gentlemen, w^hose correspondence I have submit- ted to yoiu' inspection, are Messrs. Lewis, Law, Lear, and Dr. Stuart. With respect to your apprehensions of Lewis's advice on subjects which materially affect my conduct^ I own they are perfectly just, and am happy you have suggested them, as they will put me on my guard. Our letters are on topics which occasion remarks on both, sides, and are improving to me alone, as they tend to correct style and give fluency to expression. I am studying the principles and uses of history in gene- ral, in a course of lectures by Priestley, and shall be able to apply them to any history so as to make it easy to be understood and entertaining. I have also much leisure for reading, as the class are studying Roman antiquities, which I have gone through with the doctor. The fourth of July was very grand ; we fired three times sixteen roimds from a six-pounder, and had public exhibitions of speaking. At night the whole college was beautifully illuminated. The ball was instituted by the students^ and principally attended by them. My ideas of impro- pridy proceeded from a distaste of such things during a recess from them, as I was confident all relish for study would be lost after such enjoyment ; for there is a differ- once between the mind's being entirely taken off from an object, to which it can retiun with increased vigor, and
WASHINGTON AND CTOTia 93
a momentary relapse, which only whets the appetite that can not be satiated.
The thermometer in the sun is 110°, 98° in the shade. We wear light clothing, and are permitted to appear in morning-gowns. I am at present in want of nothing, and perfectly well. With kind remembrances to all my friends and family, I conclude with wishing you health, peace, and happiness, the only blessings this world can bestow and man enjoy, and subscribe myself with sincere affection and duty,
Yotma,
G. W. P. Cusns.
GbOBOS WASHmGTON, EsQ.
MoxjNT Vernon, 2M July^ \1^1.
Deab WASfflNGTON : TouT letter of the 14th instant has been duly received, and gives us pleasure to hear that you enjoy good health, and are progressing well in yoiu* studies.
Far be it from me to discoiurage your correspondence with Dr. Stuart, Mr. Law, or Mr. Lewis, or indeed with any others, as well-disposed and capable as I believe ihey are to give you specimens of correct writing, proper subjects, and if it were necessary, good advice.
With respect to your epistolary amusements gene- rally, I had nothing further in view than not to let them interfere with your studies, which were of more interest- ing concern; and with regard to Mr. Z. Lewis, I only meant that no suggestions of his, if he had proceeded to give them, were to be interposed to the course pointed out by Dr. Smith, or suffered to weaken your confidence therein. Mr. Lewis was educated at Yale college, and as is natural, may be prejudiced in favor of the mode
94 CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN
pursued at that seminary ; but no college has turned out better scholars, or more estimable characters, than Nas- sau. Nor is there any one whose president is thought more capable to direct a proper system of education than Dr. Smith ; for which reason, if Mr. Lewis, or any other, was to prescribe a different course from the one you are engaged in by the direction of Dr. Smith, it would give me concern. Upon the plan you propose to conduct your correspondence, none of the evils I was fearful of can happen, while advantages may result ; for composi- tion, like other things, is made more perfect by practice and attention, and just criticism thereon.
I do not hear you mention anything of geography or mathematics as parts of your study ; both these are ne- cessary branches of useful knowledge. Nor ought you to let your knowledge of the Latin language and grammati- cal rules escape you. And the French language is now so universal, and so necessary with foreigners, or in a foreign country, that I think you would be injudicious not to make yourself master of it
You certainly do not observe the degree of heat by Farenheit's thermometer, or it must be in a very hot exposure if you do j for at no time this summer has the mercury been above 90°, or at most 91°, at this place ; and I should think Princeton must be as cool at least as Mount Vernon, being nearly two degrees north of it
Your mamma went from here (with your sister Nelly) to Hope Park, on Wednesday, and is as well as usual. Your sister Law and child, were well on that day ; and Mr., Mrs., and Eleanor Peter are all well at this place now, and having many others in the house, among whom
WASmNGTON AND CUSTIS. 95
are Mr. Volney and Mr. William Morris. I shall only
add, that I am sincerely and aflfectionately.
Yours, G. Washington.
Mr. G. W. P. CusTis.
Nassau Hall, July ^Oth, 1797.
Dearest Sm: It is with pleasure I acknowledge the receipt of your obliging favor of the 23d ultimo, and must congratulate you upon the enjoyment of your health, the preservation of which should always be our aun, and I have no doubt, as long as you are able to take your accustomed exercise that you will be perfectly welL
Mr. Z. Lewis has kept up the correspondence. His letters have generally contained common-place remarks on different subjects. His plans, were he to suggest any, would have very Uttle weight with me, and would not tend to counteract those of Doctor Smith, I assure you. As to the other gentlemen, I am well convinced they would merely suggest, and not pretend to influence me in any pursuit pointed out by him.
With respect to the study of geography, I had forgot- ten that you were unacquainted with the course of the class, or I should have mentioned it particularly. We are now engaged in geography and English grammar, both of which we shall nearly conclude this session. The senior class will leave college in about a fortnight, when we shall become junior or second class, not in' studies, as we do not commence mathematics till next session. The time appears to glide away imperceptibly. This session wants but eight weeks of being out.
It was with heartfelt satisfaction I read that Buonaparte had sued for the liberation of the marquis^ and sincerely
96 OORB£SPONDi2fOE BETWEEN
hope poor Mr. Lafeyette may have some authentic ao- comits concerning the same, which will, no douht, afford him great relief in his present state of suspense *
The weather has become more moderate. I have no news to tell you, except that Greenleaf is in jail and likely to remain there.
Present my love to the femily, and be assured, dearest sir, that bound by ties indissoluble in themselves, and sacred to me, I remain,
Your dutiftd and affectionate,
a W. P. CUSTTS.
Mount Vernon, 29th August^ 1797.
Dear WAsmNGTON: Your letter of the 21st instant, came to hand by the last post, and as usual, gave us pleiasure to hear that you enjoyed good health, were progressing well in your studies, and that you were in the road to promotion.
The senior class having left, or being on the point of leaving college, some of them with great echij ought to ' provoke strong stimulus to those who remain, to acquire equal reputation, which is no otherwise to be done than by perseverance and close application; in neither of which I hope you will be found deficient.
Not knowing the precise time that the vacation com- mences, I have put \mder cover with this letter to Doctor Smith, forty dollars to defray the expenses of your jour- ney ; and both your grandmamma and myself desire that you will not think of doing it by water, as the passage
* The Marquis de Lafayette suffered much during the etorm of the old French Revolution. He was compelled to flee from his country, but being arrested, was for three years in prison in a dungeon at Olmutz, in Qermany. His son, Qeorge Washington Lafayette, above alluded to, came to America, and found a home in the family of Waslungton, at Mount Vernon, until his father was set at liberty.
WASHINQTON AND CUSHS. 97
may not only be very tedums^ but subject to a variety of accidents, to which a journey by land is exempt ; and as the yellow fever is announced from authority to be in Philadelphia^ we enjoin it on you strictly to pursue the route, and the direction which you may receive from the president of the college, to avoid the inconveniences and consequences which a different conduct might involve you and others in.
Although I persuade myself that there is no occasion for the admonition, yet I exhort you to come with a mind steadfastly resolved to return precisely at the time allotted, that it may be guarded against those ideas and allurements which unbend it from study, and cause re- luctance to return to it again. Better remain where you are than suffer impressions of this sort to be imbibed from a visit, however desirous that visit may be to you, and pleasing to your friends, who wiU prefer infinitely your permanent good, to temporary gratifications ; but I shall make all fears of this sort yield to a firm persua- sion, that every day convinces you more and more of the propriety and necessity of devoting your youthful days in the acquirement of that knowledge which will be ad- vantageous, grateful, and pleasing to you in maturer years, and may be the foimdation of your usefulness here, and happiness hereafter.
Your grandmamma (who is prevented writing to you by General Spotswood and family's being here) has been a good deal indisposed by swelling on one side of her face, but it is now much better. The rest of the family within doors are all well, and all unite in best regards for you, with your sincere friend, and affectionate,
G. WASfflNGTON. Mr. G. Washington Custis.
98 COBB£8PONDE270B BETWEIN
The correspondence for the year 1797 here closed We next find a letter from Washington to Mr. McDowell, president of St. John's college, Annapolis. We know not why Mr. Custis was removed from Princeton.
Mount Verwon, 5th March, 1798.
Sm: Consequent upon a letter received from Mr. George Calvert recently, this letter will be presented to you by Doctor Stuart, who is so obliging as to accom- pany young Mr.^ Custis to Annapolis for the purpose of placing him at college tmder your auspices, and making such arrangements respecting his boarding and the pre- cise line of conduct for him to observe, and such coiu«e of studies as you and he (the temper and genius of the youth being considered) shall conceive most eligible for him to pursue.
Mr. Custis possesses competent talents to fit him for any studies, but they are counteracted by an indolence of mind, which renders it difl&cult to draw them into action. Doctor Stuart having been an attentive observer of this, I shall refer you to him for the development of the causes, while justice from me requires I should add, that I know of no vice to which this inertness can be at- tributed. From drinking and gaming he is perfectly free, and if he has a propensity to any other impropriety it is hidden from me. He is generous and regardfid oi truth.
As his family, fortune, and talents (if the latter can be improved), give him just* pretensions to become a useftd member of society in the councils of his country, his friends, and none more than mjrself, are extremely desir- ous that his education should be liberal, polished, and
WASHINGTON AND CUSTIS. 99
suitable for this end ; any suggestions to promote these views will be thankfiilly received Whatever is agreed upon by Doctor Stuart in my behalf, with relation to Mr. CustiSy will meet the approbation oi^ and be complied with by, 6ir, your most obedient humble servant,
G. WASfflNGTON. Mr. McDowell,
President of the College at Annapolis.
Annapolis, March 12«A, 1798. Deabest Sm : I arrived here in due season, after a very agreeable journey, and found all my relations well, and Annapolis a very pleasant place. I visited the principal inhabitants while the doctor was here, and found them aU very kind. Mr. McDowell is a very good and agree- able man. He has examined me, and I am now pursuing the study of Natural Philosophy, and hope to distinguish myself in that branch as well as others. Arithmetic I have reviewed, and shall commence French immediately with the professor here. I was so fortunate as to get in with a Mrs. Brice, a remarkably clever woman, with whom I live very well and contented. There are several clever young men boarding in this house, with whom I asso- ciate on the most friendly terms. The mail is going out, and I have only to add, that I constantly bear in mind your virtuous precepts, and hope to benefit by ihem, and am most sincerely and affectionately yoiu*
dutiful, G. W. P. CusTis.
Geobge Washington, Esq.
Mount Vernon, 1M March, 1798. Dear WASmNOTON: Your letter of the 12th instant has been received ; and it gives me and your friends
100 CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN
here much pleasure* to find that you are agreeably fixed, and disposed to prosecute your studies with zeal and alacrity.
Let these continue to be your primary objects and pursuits ; all other matters at your time of life are of secondary consideration. For it is on a well-grounded knowledge of these, your respectability in maturer age, your usefulness to your country, and, indeed, your own private gratification, when you come seriously to reflect upon the importance of them, will depend. The wise man, you know, has told us (and a more useful lesson never was taught) that there is a time for aU things ; and now is the time for laying in such a stock of erudition as will effect the purposes I have mentioned. And above all things, I exhort you to pursue the course of studies that Mr. McDowell, of whom every one, as well as yoiu*- self, speaks highly, has or shall mark out as the most eligible path to accomplish the end. It is firom the ex- perience and knowledge of preceptors that youth is to be advantageously instructed. If the latter are to mark out their own course, there would be little or no occa- sion for the former, and what would be the consequence it is not diflGicult to predict.
One or other of the family will expect to receive a letter from you once a fortnight, that we may know how you are in health ; in addition to which, I shall expect to hear how you are progressing in your studies, as time advances. All here join in best wishes for you, among whom, your sister Peter is of the number ; and you may be assured of the friendship of your affectionate,
G. WASfflNGTON. Mr. G. W. p. CusTis.
WASHmOTON AND CUSTIS. 101
Annapolis, April 2d, 1798.
Dearest Sm: Your letter arrived by the ordinary course of mail^ which goes by Baltimore^ and gave me sincere pleasure hearing you and the family were in good health.
I was somewhat unweU for some time after coming here, owing to the water, but it is entirely removed now. I am going on with the class in college and attending the French master, who is, I believe, very competent Every week we write dissertations on various subjects, which are both amusing and instructive, and create laud- able emulation.
I am very happily situated, perhaps better than many others ; and could a repetition of those sentiments I have always avowed express my gratitude and obligations to you, they should be here expressed ; but it is sufficient that they are indelibly engraven on my mind, and can never be erased while the principles on which they are grounded exist. These principles are innate. What could be a greater misfortune to me than yom* displeas- ure ! What a greater happiness than your confidence !
I find that young M. C. has been at Mount Vernon, and report says, to address my sister. It may be well to subjoin an opinion, which I believe is general in this place, viz., that he is a young man of the strictest probity and morals, discreet without closeness, temperate with- out excess, and modest without vanity; possessed of those amiable qualities and fiiendship which are so com- mendable, and with few of the vices of the age. In short, I think it a most desirable match, and wish that it may take place with all my heart.
I have received every kindness from the citizens of
102 OORRESPONDENOB BETWEEN
Annapolis, and could anything heighten my opinion of your character, it would be their expressions of esteem and regard. Adieu, dearest sir, and believe me sincerely and affectionately yours,
G. W. P. CDsm George Washington, Esq.
Mount Vernon, 15th April, 1798.
Deab Washington : Your letter of the 2d instant came duly to hand, and gave us pleasure (as you may naturally conceive from our solicitude for your well- doing) at hearing that you had got over a short in- disposition; was happy in your present situation; and going on well in your studies. Prosecute these with diligence and ardor, and you will, sometime hence, be more sensible than now of the rich harvest you will gather from them.
It gave us pleasure, also, to hear that you are kindly treated by the families in Annapolis. Endeavor by a prudent, modest, and discreet conduct, to merit a con- tinuance of it, but do not suffer attentions of this sort to withdraw you from your primary pursuits.
Young Mr. C came here about a fortnight ago to
dinner, and left us next morning after breakfasi If his object was such as you say has been reported, it was not declared here ; and therefore, the less is said upon the subject, particularly by your sister's friends, the more prudent it will be until the subject develops itself more.
The family at this place are much as usual; your sister Peter, and her children are here, and Mr. Peter occasionally so. Dr. Stuart is also here at present, and informs us that your mother and the family (one of your sisters excepted) are very well. Mr. Law has been here.
WASHmQTQN AND CUSTIS. 103
and leaving Mrs. Law at Baltimore, went back for her, aiid is not returned that we have heard of. This is all the domestic news which occurs to me ; and, therefore, with every good wish of those I have enumerated, and particularly the blessings of your grandmamma,
I remain, your sincere friend, and affectionate,
G. WASfflNOTON. To Mr. Washington Custis.
Annapolis, Ma^ 5th, 1798.
Dearest Sm : Colonel Fitzgerald arrived here about an hour ago,, and has poKtely offered to convey a letter to you. Nothing material has occurred since my last letter, only that we now attend college at six in the morning, which is by no means disagreeable, and conduces to health.
With respect to what I mentioned of Mr. C in
my last^ I had no other foundation but report, which has since been contradicted. All the families in this town in which I visits express the highest esteem and veneration for your character, which conduces, in great measure, to the satisfaction I feel in their company.
All is well at present I have found no inconvenience lately from the water, which affected me at firsi I at- tend college regularly, and am determined that nothing shall alienate my attention.
Adieu, dearest sir, may heaven proportion her reward to your meritj is the sincere and ardent prayer of,
Geo. W. p. Custis.
P. S. — I would thank you to inform me to whom I am to apply for money in case of want. Gbo. Washington, Esq.
104 CORBESPONDENOE BETWEEN
Mount Verkon, 10^ May^ 1798.
Deab WASHmoTON : Your letter by Colonel Pitzgeral3* haa been received, and I shall confine my reply, at pres- ent, to the query contained in the postscript, viz., "to whom I am to apply for money in case of need."
This has the appearance of a very early application, when it is considered that you were provided very plenti- fully, it was conceived, with necessaries of all sorts when you left this (two months ago only) ; had £L 6. given to you by me, and £3. 0. 0. by Doctor Stuart^ as charged in his account against me (equal together to between 9 and 10 lbs. Maryland currency) j had a trunk purchased for you, a quarter's board paid in advance, &c. Except for your washing, and books when necessary, I am at a loss to discover what has given rise to so early a ques- tion. Surely you have not conceived that indulgence in dress or other extravagances are matters that were ever contemplated by me s& objects of expense ; and I hope they are not so by you. As then the distance between this and Annapolis is short, and the communication (by post) easy, regular, and safe, transmit the accounts of such expenses as are necessary, to me, in your letters, and a mode shall be devised for prompt and punctual payment of them. And let me exhort you, in solemn terms, to keep steadily in mind the purposes and the end for which you were sent to the seminary you are now placed at, and not disappoint the hopes which have been entertained from your going thither, by doing which, you will ensure the friendship, &c., of,
G. WASfflNGTON. To Mr. Geo. W. P. Custis.
* Colonel Fitzgerald had been one of Washington's favorite aids.
WASHINGTON AND CUSTI& 105
Annapolis, May 26, 1798.
Deabest Sm : Tour last letter axrived safely, and con- veyed the pleasing intelligence of your health, a theme always acceptable to my grateful heart. With respect to my expenses I did not mean to insinuate that I was actually in want, but supposed you had placed money in the hands of some one to whom I might apply. I have opened accounts with a shoemaker, tailor, and other per- sons from whom I might want occasional articles, which shall all be transmitted to you when offered. I got some nankeen and a gingham coat^ which, together, with a hat, are all the necessary articles I wanted; the hat might have lasted longer had it not been a worthless one. I have been very carefrd of my clothes, and frequently re- vise them myself
I now enter on a subject which I will endeavor to make plain. Far from being addicted to dress and ex- travagance, I am not fond of such things, and have not spent money in that way. I confess, that when I have friends at my own house, I like to entertain them with little superfluities, but farther, I sacredly deny any dissi- pation. I visit of an evening among some families, but never dine out except on Sunday. I have received that attention from the inhabitants of this town which claims my sincere regard, and shall endeavor by my conduct to merit their esteem. General Stone's politeness to me has been particular.
Nothing material has occurred since my last I at- tend to my French constantly, with a good teacher, and hope to acquire the pronunciation. Adieu, dear sir, and believe me, ever dutifully and intrinsically yours,
G. W. P. CusTis. Geo. Washington, Esq.
106 COBBESPONDENCB BETWEDf
Mount Vebnon, ISth June, 1798. • Dear Washington : It is now near five weeks since any person of this family has heard from yon^ though you were requested to write once a fortnight Knowing how apt your grandmamma is to suspect that you are sick^ or that some accident has happened to you, how could you omit this?
I have said that none of us have heard from you, but it behooves me to add, that from persons in Alexandria, lately from Annapolis, I ^lave, with much surprise, been informed of your devoting much time, and paying much attention, to a certain young lady of that place. Know- ing that conjectures are often substituted for facts, and idle reports are circulated without foundation, we are not disposed to give greater credence to these than what arises from a fear that your application to books is not such as it ought to be, and that the hours that might be more profitably employed at your studies are mispent in this manner.
Recollect again the saying of the wise man, " There is a tune for all things," and sure I am, this is not a time for a boy of your age to enter into engagements which might end in sorrow and repentance.
Yours affectionately,
G. WAflHINaTON. Mr. G. W. P. CusTis.
Mablbobough, Jwm Ylihj 1796. Dearest Sm : I received your letter by mamma at this place, where I had come on my uncle's horses, and with Mr. McDowell's permission, in hopes of meeting her. She arrived the same day that I did, and informed me particularly respecting the svbjed of your letter, which
WASHINGTON AND CUSTIS. 107
appeared to set heavy on your mind. The report^ as mamma tells me, of my bemg engaged to the yomig lady ^ in question, is strictly erroneous. That I gave her rea- son to believe in my attachment to her, I candidly allow, but that I would enter into engagements inconsistent with my duty or situation, I hope your good opinion of me will make you disbelieve. That I stated to her my pros- pects, duty, and dependance upon the absolute will of my firiends, I solemnly affirm. That I solicited her affec- tion, and hoped, with the approbation of my family, to bring about a union at some future day, I likewise allow. The conditions were not accepted, and my youth being alleged by me as an obstacle to the consummation of my wishes at the present time (which was farthest from my thoughts), I withdrew, and that on fair and honorable terms, to the satisfaction of my friends.
Thus the matter ended, and should never have pro- ceeded so far had I not been betrayed by my own feel- ings. However rash and imprudent I may be, I have always remembered my duty and obligation to you, which is the guide of my actions. It was this which prevented my entering into any engagements which were not entirely conditional.
To my mother I disclosed the whole affair, who is now perfectly satisfied ; and I hope this small statement of facts, which I can confirm, either upon oath or the testi- mony of my fiiends, will eradicate all uneasiness from your mind.
Let me once more, sir, on the shrine of gratitude, plight my faith to you ; let me unclasp the sacred books of morality and lay my duty, nay, my all, at your feci Tour beneficence could not enhance your virtues ; on my
108 C0BBE8P0NDENGE BETWEEN
heart they are engraven as the benefactor, the friend^ nay, the more than father of,
G. W. P. CUSTK. GeOBGE WASHmOTON, Esq.
MoTJWT Verkon, 18^ June^ 1798.
SxB : An ardent wish that young Custis should apply
closely to his studies, and conduct himself with propriety
under your auspices, induces me to give you the trouble
of receiving these inquiries, and to know if he is in want
of anything that can be provided for him by, sir.
Your obedient and humble servant,
Geo, Washington. Mr. McDowell.
Annapolis, July \2th, 1798.
Deabest Sm: Not receiving any favor from you in answer to my last, and only a letter from Doctor Stuart, in which he questions but little concerning the affair which caused you so much anxiety, induces me to hope that both my confession of the circumstances of the case, and my error, has obliterated from your mind all im- favorable impressions. Confiding in this hope, I again submit myself to your confidence, and assure you, that though urged by imprudence, I was governed by duty — that duty which I shall hold sacred in all my walks of life ; and let the goodness of my heart but cover the im- prudence of my actions, and I am contented. My peace of mind, my consciousness of rectitude, will always be to me a sufficient plea for my actions ; and be assured, dear- est sir, nothing can contribute more to both than your favor.
I have nearly finished the six books of Euclid, and ex- pect that college will adjourn in a fortnight I can col-
WASHINGTON AND CUSTI3. 109
lect and forward all accounts as soon as you shall think fit to call for the same, and I hope that their reasonable-. ness will be acceptable to you.
I need not congratulate you on an appointment* which was always designed by the Creator for one so fully capable of fulfilling it Let an admiring world again be- hold a Cincinnatus springing up fi^m rural retirement to the conquest of nations; and the fiiture historian, in erasing so great a name, insert that of the ^ Father of Ms comdryr
Remember me to all, and believe me sincerely, duti- fully, and affectionately yours,
Geo. W. p. Custis. Gren. Geo. WAsmNGxoN.
The letter immediately preceding the following was not found in tiie package.
Annapolis, July 21«f, 1798. Dearest Sm: By the returning mail I heartily ac- knowledge your last favor, and am sincerely happy in having given you full satisfaction in an affair so interest- ing, and mutually affecting to both my friends and my- self I this day finish the six books of Euclid, and with that, the coxu^e marked out for me while in Annapolis. College breaks up Monday week (the 30th), and I shall always be ready when you may send for me. I shall enclose my accounts by next post, so as to be ready to leave this as soon as convenient. I would thank you to inform me whether I leave it entirely, or not, so that I may pack up accordingly. With sincere affection to all friends I bid you adieu,
G. W. P. Custis.
* As oommander-in-chief of the provisional army of the United States.
110 GOBRBSPOin)£NCB BEIWEKN
Mount Vernon, 2itk Jufy^ 1798* Deak Washington : Your letter of the 2l8t was received last night The question, " I would thank you to inform me whether I leave it entirely, or not^ so that I may pack up accordingly," really astonishes me ! for it would seem aa if votlmg I could say to you made more than a mo- mentary impression. Did I not, before you went to that seminary, and since by letter, endeavor to fix indelibly on your mind, that the object for which you were sent there was to finish a coiurse of education which you your- self were to derive the benefit of hereafter, and for pres- sing which upon you, you would be the first to thank yoinr fiiends so soon aa reason has its proper sway in the direction of your thoughts?
As there is a regular stage between Annapolis and the federal city, embrace that as the easiest and most con- venient way of getting to the latter, fix)m whence Mr. Law or Mr. Peter will, I have no doubt^ send you hither ; or a horse might meet you there, or at Alexandriai, at an appointed tune.
The family are well ; and I am, as usual, your affec- tionate,
G. WASfflNGTON.
To Me. G. W. P. CusTis.
ANNAP0Li8»/u/y 23, 1798. Dearest Sm : Since my last I have collected all my ac- counts, which I transmit for yom* perusal. The only article I apologize for is an umbreUa, which I was un- avoidably obliged to prociu'e, as I lost one belonging to a gentleman. College breaks up* on Saturday, and I shall be ready at any time that you may send. I will look over everything belonging to me and have them
WASHmOTON AND CU8TIS. Ill
adjusted. I am very well, and at variance with no one, 80 that I shall leave this place just as I first entered it
Believe me, dearest sir, sincerely and affectionately yours, Geo. W. P. Custis.
6b0. WASmNGTONy Esq.
Mount Vernon, BOth July^ 1798.
Sm : Being very much engaged of late in a manner I little expected, I have not only siiffered your favor of the 19th instant to remain unacknowledged, but not attending to the time of the vacation of St. John's college, I have suffered that also to arrive, or to approach too near for the enclosed remittances to defray the expenses of Mr. Custis, before it is probable he left Annapolis.
Allow me the liberty, for this reason, to put the ac- counts which he has just transmitted to me, under cover to you, with bank-notes of Columbia for one hundred dollars, to discharge and take a receipt thereon, to be re- tamed to me.
The pressure which is upon me at this time will not allow me to say anything relatively to the course of studies marked out for Mr. Custis when he returns to coUege. I will write more fuUy to you on this subject at a future time. Sir, I remain, your most obedient^
G. WASfflNGTON. To Mr. McDowell.
MotmT Vernon, 2d September ^ 1798. Sm: Your favor of the 13th ultimo, with the accounts, came duly to hand, and I thank you for the trouble you have had in pa3nng and taking receipts therefor. The small balance of £„ 3. 5i may, if you please, be given to Mr. Custis.
112 CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN
It was my intention to have written fully to you by the return of this young gentleman to college, but the debilitated state into which I have been thrown by a fever, with which I was seized on the 18th, and could procure no remission of until the 25th past, renders writing equally irksome and improper.
Were the case otherwise, I should, I confess, be at a loss to point out any precise course of study for Mr. Custis. My views, with respect to him, have already been made known to you, and, therefore, it is not neces- sary to repeat them on this occasion. It is not merely the best course for him to pursue that requires a con- sideration, but such an one as he can be induced to pur- sue, and wiU contribute to his improvement and the ob- ject in view. In directing the first of these objects, a gentleman of your literary discernment and knowledge of the world, would be at no loss, without any suggestions of mine, if there was as good a disposition to receive, as there are talents to acquire knowledge; but as there seems to be in this youth an unconquerable indolence of temper, and a dereliction, in fact, to all study, it must Test with you to lead him in the best manner, and by the easiest modes you can devise, to the study of such useful acquirements as may be serviceable to himself, and event- ually beneficial to his country.
French, from having become in a manner the universal language, I wish him to be master of, but I do not find, from inquiry, that he has made much progress in the study yet Some of the practical branches of mathematics, par- ticularly surveying, he ought^ possessor as he is of large landed property, to be well acquainted with, as he may have frequent occasion for the exercise of that study.
WASHINaTON AND CUSTIS. 113
I have already exceeded the limit I had prescribed to myself when I began this letter, but I will trespass yet a little more, while I earnestly entreat that you\will ex- amine him, as often as you can make it convenient, your- self; and admonish him seriously of his omissions and de- fects J and prevent, as much as it can be done, without too rigid a restraint, a devotion of his time to visitations of the families in Annapolis j which, when carried to excess, or beyond a certain point, can not but tend to divert his mind from study, and lead his thoughts to very different objects. Above all, let me request, if you should per- ceive any appearance of his attaching himself, by visits or otherwise, to any young lady of that place, that you would admonish him against any such step, on accoimt of his youth and incapability of appreciating all the re- quisites for a connexion which, in the common course of things, can terminate with the death of one of the parties only; and, if done without effect, to advise me thereof If, in his reading, he was to make common-place notes, as is usual, copy them fair and show them to you, two good purposes would be answered by it. You would see with what judgment they were done, and it might tend much to improve his hand-writing, which requires nothing but care and attention to render it good. At present^ all of his writing that I have seen is a hurried scrawl, as if to get to the end speedily, was the sole object of writing.
With sincerest esteem and regard, I am, sir, yoxn* obe- dient servant,
Geo. WAsmNGTON.
P. S. — ^Knowledge of book-keeping is* essential to all who are under the necessity of keeping accoimts. Mr. McDowell.
8
114 CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN
Mount Vernon, 16M September^ 1798.
Sm : The enclosed was written at the time of its date, and, with Mr. Custis, I expected would have left this the next morning for St John's college ; but although he pro- fessed his readiness to do whatever was required of him, his unwillingness to return was too apparent to afford any hope that good would result from it in the prosecu- tion of his studies. And, therefore, as I have now a gen- tleman living with me who has abilities adequate thereto, will have sufficient leisure to attend to it, and has prom- ised to do so accordingly, I thought best> upon the whole, to keep him here.
He returns to Annapolis for the purpose of bringing back with him such articles as he left there, and dis- charging any accounts which may have remained unpaid. With great esteem and regard, I am, sir, your most obe- dient servant, G. Washington.
Mr. McDowell.
Mount Vernon, Jctnuary 22, 1799.
Deab Sm : Washington leaves this to-day on a visit to Hope Park,* which will afford you an opportunity to ex- amine the progress he has made in the studies he was directed to pursue.
I can, and I believe I do, keep him in his room a cer- tain portion of the twenty-four hours, but it will be im- possible for me to make him attend to his books, if in- clination on his part is wanting; nor while I am out if he chooses to be so, is it in my power to prevent it I will not say this is the case, nor will I run the hazard of do- ing him injustice, by saying he does not apply as he ought to what has been prescribed, but no risk will be
* The residence of his mother's family.
WASHINGTON AND CU8TIB. 115
run^ and candor requires I should declare it as my opin- ion, that he will not derive much benefit in any course which can be marked out for him at this place, without an abk preceptor always with him.
What is best to be done with him I know not My opinion always has been, that the university in Massa- chusetts would have been the most eligible seminary to have sent him to ; firsts because it is on a larger scale than any other ; and, secondly, because I believe that the habits of the youth there, whether from the discipline of the school, or the greater attention of the people gen- erally to morals, and a more regular course of life, are less prone to dissipation and excess than they are at the colleges south of it It may be asked, if this was my opinion, why did I not send him there ? The answer is as short as to me it was weighty : being the only male of his line, and knowing (although it would have been sub- mitted to) that it would have proved a heart-rending stroke to have him at that distance, I was disposed to try a nearer seminary, of good repute, which, from some cause, or combination of causes, has not, after the experi- ment of a year, been found to answer the end that was contemplated. Whether to send him there now, or, in- deed, to any other public school, is, indeed, problematical, and to mispend his time at this place would be disgrace- ful to himself and me.
If I were to propose to him to go to the university at Cambridge, in Massachusetts, he might, as has been usual for him on like occasions, say, he would go wherever I chose to send him, but if he should go, contrary to his inclination, and without a disposition to apply himself properly, an expense without any benefit would result
116 WASfflNOTON AND CU8TIS.
from the measure. Knowing how much I have been diB- appointed, and my mind disturbed by his conduct, he would not^ I am sure, make a candid disclosure of his sentiments to me on this or any other plan I might pro- pose for the completion of his education, for which rea- son, I would pray that you (or perhaps Mrs. Stuart could succeed better than any one) would draw from him a frank and explicit disclosure of what his own wishes and views are ; for, if they are absolutely fixed, an attempt to counteract them by absolute control would be as idle as the endeavor to stop a rivulet that is constantly run- ning. Its progress, while moimd upon mound is erected, may be arrested, but this must have an end, and every- thing will be swept away by the torrent. The more I think of his entering William and Mary, imless he could be placed in the bishop's family, the more I am convinced of its inutility on many accounts, which had better be the subject of oral communication than by letter. I shall wish to hear from you on the subject of this letter. I believe Washington means well, but has not resolution to act well. Our kind regards to Mrs. Stuart and family, and I am, my dear sir.
Your obedient and affectionate servant,
G. WASfflNGTON. Davh) Stuart, Esq.
This is the last letter in the packet from which the foregoing series have been copied. The correspondence exhibits the old story of a youth of genius and fortune disappointing the hopes of his friends while at college ; and it presents Washington in a new light, as exercising the tender solicitude of a parent
RECOLLECTIONS AND PRIVATE MEMOIRS
OF THE
LIFE AND CHARACTER
OF
WASHINaTON.
EDITOR'S PREPACR
It was the priyilege of the writer to enjoy the friendship of Mr. Castis, the author of the following Recollections of Wash- ififftony for several years, and to experience, on frequent occar sions, the hospitalities of Arlington House, his beautiful seat on the Potomac, opposite the federal city. The subject of his Rec- ollections was a frequent topic of conversation, and the writer always expressed an earnest desire that Mr. Cnstis should com- plete and prepare for publication, in book form, the interesting work begun, many years before, of recording what he knew and remembered concerning the private life of Washington, and some of his compatriots. But his spirit was summoned from earth before that work was completed, and the revision of what was already done was left to other hands.
When invited by the only-surviving child of Mr. Custis to as- sist her in preparing his imperfect and unfinished Recollections for the press, by arranging them properly and adding illustrative and explanatory notes, the writer complied wich pleasure, for filial gratitude to the Father of his Country seemed to demand the dedication of whatever labor might be usefully employed in the preservation of precious memorials of that father which had hith- erto been left in the perishable form of newspaper articles.
Many of the facts recorded in this volume have already found their way, one by one, into our histories ; but the great mass of them will be fresh to every reader, and intrinsically valuable.
The illustrative and explanatory notes have been prepared with the single purpose of instructing', not amusing; and if, to the well-informed, many of them shall appear unnecessary, let it be remembered that it is only the few who are well iniformed, and that the many need instruction.
Care has been taken not to alter